Critical Body and Rust
Sills (Rocker Panels)
Symptoms
Visible rust bubbling through paint, holes in the sills, softness when you poke them with a screwdriver.
Cause
The sills are three-piece structures (outer sill, inner sill, central box section) that trap water and mud. When drain holes block, the sills rust from the inside out. Salt accelerates the process.
Fix
Cut out the rot and weld in new metal.
Sill repair sections are available, but often the inner structure is rotten too, making it a major job.
If you're not a competent welder, this is expensive.
If the sills are rusty, assume the inner sills and jacking points are also compromised.
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