Jimbo 24,

There is a brace that holds up the front end of the apron on the inside. It's made from what looks like 16 gauge sheet metal and kind of follows the curve of the apron. It does not attach to the bed panel at all. They are the same brace that is used on the 1/2 & 3/4 tons. I have not seen these sold separately, but usually are sold with the new aprons. It doesn't look like a difficult piece to make either. Look thru some project pictures and I'm sure you can find what it looks like, or maybe someone in the forum has a picture they can post.
Good luck! Tom