I know the following will get a chilly reception from many. But, I've been happy with a couple of similar projects completed by flanging and 3M panel bond. Welding is something I have some experience with but I gave panel bond a try (out of curiosity as much as anything) on a job that would have required about 50" of butt weld and was/am happy with the results 10 years later.

Good Luck,

RR

RonR


1951 3600 with Clark flatbed, T5, 4.10 rear
1970 340 Duster
1990 5.0 V8 Miata (1990 Mustang Gt Drivetrain)
1964 CJ5