Badly rotted Wayfarer

[Wayfarer 51]

I have a '51 Dodge Wayfarer Convertible that I am about ready to begin reatoring. It was saved from a barn but suffered majorly from rust in the 37 years it was in the barn. I am planning to turn it into a streetrod but in a mechanical sense only. The body is going to be left, for the most part, stock. The rockers, quarters, and floors are badly rotted to the point that if I were to remove the body at this time it would come off in two pieces. This is my first project of this magnitude and I need help! Can anyone offer advice on how to begin a resto. like this, especially on how to square up and secure the body while the replacement panels are welded in. I am also in need of several body parts for this car and as drivetrain.
Thanks, '51

[Al Reibel]

About the only method I've seen is to use electrical conduit- 1/2 or 3/4 inch. Cut it into lengths to span the door openings, side to side, etc, wherever you need. Flatten the ends and mig it in- you can usually find a location to "hide" the weld, so you won't create a lot of work when you remove it. If you use 3 or 4 sections across each door opening, tie them across and brace them, you should be able to make it work. A note of caution, however. Conduit is coated to prevent rust and puts off some nasty fumes when welded, so a good respirator with cartridges is the minimum you should use-
save the paper masks for sanding drywall!