Patch Panels Created Equal?

[AngryPirate]

I'm pretty sure I saw someone mention which type or brand of patch panels are better formed and a better fit. I know top banana was mentioned as carrying quality parts but I though there was some other distinguisher to identify better patch panel manufacturers.

I would order from top banana but they don't carry the piece I need, a patch for a lower rear fender (rear of the wheel) patch for a 61 longbed fleetside.

Thanks for any direction.

-Scott

[Indian113]

I think your talking about Tri plus.

[AngryPirate]

Originally Posted by Indian113

I think your talking about Tri plus.

That does sound like it. Thanks, I'll head down that avenue of searching for parts.

[AngryPirate]

So, I did some digging and it seems that Tri-Pro Automotive and another guy (Christian's Classics) merged together to form Top Banana.

Alright, the search continues for that fender patch panel.

[franken]

The parts are made in Asia, and various companies in the US sell them. Goodmark, and so-on are distributors.

It's kind of a shell game. there may be multiple makers, and there are certainly many sellers. The quality varies.

AMD has a recently good reputation.

[brokenspoke]

I have heard that Tabco has nice aftermarket parts

[tincan1966]

http://www.topbananaparts.com/media/...8-133_l_10.png

They offer this one, altho it does not extend all the way to the tail light panel for a long bed.

[donthekawguy]

You might have better luck in a wrecking yard. If you go that route make sure you get plenty of extra meat when you cut it off.

[AngryPirate]

Thanks for the responses everyone.

I've got some more diggin' to do now.

[tincan1966]

I double checked the last patch panels we bought thru Top Banana and the part labels say Tri-Plus/Key Auto as the manufacturer.

I've used the inner and outer full rockers, the lower front fender sections, lower outer door skins and the three pieces needed to make my rear quarter patches for my 'burb and been very happy with the fit and gauge of the metal.

[AngryPirate]

Originally Posted by tincan1966

I double checked the last patch panels we bought thru Top Banana and the part labels say Tri-Plus/Key Auto as the manufacturer.

I've used the inner and outer full rockers, the lower front fender sections, lower outer door skins and the three pieces needed to make my rear quarter patches for my 'burb and been very happy with the fit and gauge of the metal.

Thanks for checking tincan!