Well gents, this has been quite an educational thread for me... here's
two 55.2 rear fenders; patch panels made, welded in, & ready to get epoxy primed. I still need to give the second fender some more hammer-love, but it lines up & is solid metal.
Thanks to all for the help & motivation. Robert, I owe you a cherry Coca-Cola whenever I see you. Or, some of our fine south-Alabama clear beverage in a Mason jar...whichever you prefer (to stay on topic it can also be used as a wipe-down cleaning solvent).
Brad