I reccently just bout my first el camino, a 1972 model. It needs considerable body work. Both rear quaters are shot, the lower corners of the fenders where it meets the door are gone, the lower corners of the hinged sides of the doors are completely see through and the bed has a few minor holes. Id like to replace with sheet metal only, does this seem feasable? Oh, and it looks like I have an SS hood on the car, but the front end of the hood looks like it has a big chunk taken out of it but no holes...where these built up with lead or some other metal? Any advice on how to takle these problems as well as good parts vendors would be greatly appreciated.

For the 3rd gen's, there are plenty of replacement body parts. Check out the ECC Sponsor web page (http://www.elcaminocentral.com/modules.php?name=Content&pa=showpage&pid=3)

I'm no body guy, by any stretch, but if the frame is good and you can get replacement quarters, fenders, etc. I would think that would be the most straightforward way to go.

Just my two cents worth....

i am a body guy,and i completly agree.parts for your gen. are more plentiful than other body style elcos.its alot easier to replace sheet metal where you can.besides,you'll never fully get rid of rust on a repair.if you do decide to patch the panels,cut the metal about an inch past where the rust ends.measure twice,cut once and take your time.good luck!