Howdy SCboy'55

depends on where you want to do the patch work.

if it is a floor panel and you can get to both sides you can get by without removing the cab.

back of cab, cab corners etc does not normally require removing the cab.

as far as outside appearance you would follow normal finishing techniques to get the look you want and that depends on how much effort and time you want to put into your restoration.

i normally build my weld on the outside around the patch high enough to allow for grinding the weld to cab level and then finish that with sanding etc like a normal finish.

if you remove rocker panels or cut big areas of the cab between stress points be sure you brace the cab so it doesn't distort on you.

keep up your search here in this forum and you will find many basic instructions on body finishing and panel replacement that are far advanced beyond my expertise.

Welcome to the Stovebolt page and best of luck.

Hobert

"The Lord is my shepherd"