Patch panels

Hi Guys,
I'm new to this site and have a question. I have a 1990 Chevy G20 van. I know, it's not that old, but next year it hits the 25 year mark, so give me a break. The problem is I need to replace the sheet metal on the exterior that is above and below the windshield. Does anybody know where I can find these parts? I patched all the holes about 10 years ago, but now I believe it will need complete sheet metal replacement. I can make the pieces, but that is quite time consuming as well as difficult.

Thanks,

Mistabreeze

PS- I'll upload some pics of the van later this week for your approval.

Joe Van might be able to tell you what you need to know. He has a third gen van as well as a first gen. Only other advice I can offer is maybe try Vannin.com they are more focused on the newer vans.

Thanks Wideload, I'll check that site out.

Welcome to VV..!!!.. There is currently "No One" makeing Roof or Around the windsheild,or door post,  "Patch Panels" for Chevy/Gmc vans...your only Option other than makeing them is finding a Van at the junk yard or buying a parts Van to get what metal you need..Most all patch panels are made for the beltline down.!!!.......One trick on the 3rd Gens is drill a small hole in each "Corner" of the drip edge to keep water from sitting in there thats what rust's around the windsheild and rear doors when water sit's in there and eventully leaks in the seams... ....Keep Us Posted....

Thanks Joe, I was afraid you were going to say that. I'll just make them, I think this time instead of putting back the stock windshield that uses the old VW style rubber seal, I'll have a local glass guy install the newer style WS and urethane seal when installed. Any downside to this?

As long as they will guarantee it give it a shot...I have had the best luck with the Gasket that has the "Locking Strip" in it its easer to install.. But the "Factory One" Did last 24 years..!!! ....Still I "Strongly Recommend" having it installed professionally to avoid breaking it or any leaks...As far as the metal work just do one section at a time and it should go pretty smoothly try to remove just the bad metal instead of cutting the whole panel out if it can be avoided.....Good Luck..!!!...Joe Van.. ..

Yes, definitely professionally installed. I patched it the last time just fixing all the holes with sheet metal patches, this time, I'm going to do a complete patch. I was thinking about it last night. It will be best to make it a three piece, the middle, and two side curves for both top and bottom. I did auto-body repair for 12 years after high school so I have all the equipment still. I'll post some pics once I begin the project.

Thanks for your input Dan

I meant thanks Joe.