What thickness sheet metal for repairs?

[Dago Red]

Hey guys, my uncle wants me to try my hand at body work ont he truck, 51' ford. It needs little things like a couple of cancer spots at rear of front fenders cut out and replaced, new plate made to fit around the shifter etc.

What thickness steel should I get for this work?

Thanks!

Red

[pat mccarthy]

i use 18 steel that works good on old cars and trucks

[R Pope]

Use the same gauge steel as the panel you're repairing.

[pat mccarthy]

i use a gauge a bit thicker with welding grinding hamming sanding works it down. helps keep it from warping when you are welding it in too

[Dave Severson]

I use either 18 or 20 gauge, sometimes 22 if it's a real "weight conscious" build

[bigdude]

If I have to curve it I use 22 if not 18.

[Dago Red]

I'll just get some of each then, never hurts to have steel on hand, who knows when you'll need it. I have a pretty good little scrap pile going next to the house (out of sight from the back patio of course).

Red