Advice on removing/replacing rear half of bed floor

[Toro]

The bed floor on my '72 Blazer is good from the driver/passenger seats back to about the middle of the wheel tubs. I've decided to replace the rear portion with one of the half bed patch panels. What is the best way to tackle this, and is it possible to do leaving the bedsides on?

[lks dcvn]

It can be done without removing the bedsides. Here is a link to somebody who did the entire rear floor so only swapping the back half is completely possible.

check the post here for pix and how it was done: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=688054

[litebulblsc]

If you are up to it, thumb through this thread. I remember some useful info in it.

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...=688054&page=4

[hemi43]

I did the exact thing on my Blazer. Easy to do as most of it is bolted in. Might be some useful info on my build page . http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=676080

[Toro]

So, once the wheel wells are removed, a cut made straight across in the middle between the well notches, and bolts removed around the edges, what else would be holding that piece in? Are there welds at the rear, or more bolts under the tailgate hinge area?

[hemi43]

Originally Posted by Toro

So, once the wheel wells are removed, a cut made straight across in the middle between the well notches, and bolts removed around the edges, what else would be holding that piece in? Are there welds at the rear, or more bolts under the tailgate hinge area?

Most of it is bolted in at the back, but there are a couple tack welds you'll have to cut. Chances are the rear crossmember will be rotted too, so i would replace it. It's not expensive and will make your life much easier. Also, you will have to salvage the reinforcement bracket from the old floor. This bracket is what the rear seat bolts to.

[lks dcvn]

if you plan to run a rear seat that is...

[hemi43]

Originally Posted by lks dcvn

if you plan to run a rear seat that is...

Even if you don't, there's no harm in putting it in because who knows what will be done to this Blazer in the future. The next owner will thank you for putting it in.
As far as the floor replacement, it's an easy job that can be done in a weekend.