Before I saw your post, I decided to go with the huge gaping hole in the fender, but I did weld in a scrap between the bottom stiffener (that will also get replaced after welding the patch in) and the metal to remain at the wheel opening. That helped keep the fender in shape instead of having it flopping in the breeze.
Here's some more pics.
metal shrinking stump
Stiffener
Cutting out the bad stuff
Gaping hole
Clamped in place for welding

Last edited by klhansen; 03/07/2016 4:22 AM.

Kevin
1951 Chevy 3100 work truck
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1929 Ford pickup restored from the ground up. | 1929 Ford Special Coupe (First car)
Busting rust since the mid-60's
If you're smart enough to take it apart, you darn well better be smart enough to put it back together.