Has anyone used/installed replacement bed floor section panels? I am considering some from YearOne. I think it may be easier that filling and sanding the entire bed floor.

I did. Here's what you'll run into. First, the panels are generic, which means they are cut to fit the biggest elky bed, the '73-77. Second, they come in two pieces. Third, the ends where they weld at the very rear of the bed, are not flattened, the ribs run clear off the end of the panel. Fourth, they are missing the outside ribs for use on the '70-72. Fifth, they are bowed from being stamped, which makes them hard to handle to try and line them up. Sixth, the rib is not as deep and pronounced on the repro panel, making it a real pain to try to splice them to the original panels. I spent about 60 hours cutting, hammering, welding, and sanding to get them presentible. I got them from NPD, much better customer service than Y.O, IMHO.
On a side note, the big panel that goes in the front floor of the bed was an excellent piece.

Im in the process of ordering the smugglers box lid and what looks like the correct size bed replacement panel from dynacorn , 2 total pieces. The photo looks to be the correct shape, I will definately ask before I place the order. This is for a 1970 el.I will keep you posted on my findings. Steve

I might be in need of those too. Can anyone attach a pic of the replacements? Also, does anyone have a part number or supplier for the panel below the rear window that makes up the front wall of the bed?

Thanks,
Bill

npdlink.com

pg 96-97

Yo Repodude,

I have used the replacement panels. As Dave stated they do not line up exactly as the originals. I opted to eliminate the smuglers box and use the entire panel. This made it easier and less work for the body guys. I got mine from NPD. They have had every part I have ever ordered in stock and delivered within 3 days. Excellent service. You can see the progress of my 70 at the link below:

http://s85.photobucket.com/albums/k56/mh70ss/70%20Elky%20-%20Body%20Shop/?action=view&slideshow=true

Great photos Mike ! Thanks ,very helpful. I have learned that dynacorn does not make the original shaped bed panel ( the one that goes with the smugglers box cover) it will be available soon, so they say.The cover is available ,like 90.00. My rust is not quite that extensive, Im hoping to just replace the bed like it was originally. Nothing looks cleaner than a perfect painted bed! I do think the full bed without the SBC looks better, in my case it might be less work going back to original. Steve

On a 72, has anyone tried welding sections from a loaner El Camino? I have a replacement panel and agree with previous posts, it does not line up very good. I couldn't see using the whole panel when I only have some pin holes back by the bed. Of course the sand blaster will probably change that. I have a parts car,not worth saving, but the front center section is real nice.
Has anyone done this?
Thanks Bill

Mike that is some very nice work you are doing. :thumbsup:

Nelson

Mike, you and youre helper are awesome. I also (had) my quarter panels replaced on my 69 El Key, I noticed on my replacement quarters and front bed wall that the little studs that retaine the clips for the window moldings are not there. What does Mike do to resolve this issue ?
Mike.

Mike ?

They have a stud welder that will weld them in at the exact height necessary. They should be on soon as they plan to paint it next week.

I know this is a really old thread but had to comment, your work is beautiful. I am doing a 68 El Camino and my supports under the bed are toast so I am going to be replacing them. Looks like you may have used new square tubing and channel to fab your up or did you actually locate replacements supports?

the work done is incrediable to bad the posts are so old !