Packin31, I've considered the same questions myself. At the upholstery seminar in Philadelphia several years ago they recommended that all upholstery be removed down to the bare frame and springs. Then clean and paint them before reuphostering. This gets rid of any residual smell and mess left by rodents. If you do that yourself, then the upholsterer will either have to have what was removed or photographs to match the original. If you have individual coil springs that are wrapped in burlap, it becomes quite a task! I would definitely remove the seats and upholstery panels, etc. before attempting any body repair. What I attempt to do is cut out the rotted metal and weld in replacement sheet metal. I have an acetylene gas welder that is probably not the best way to do this. I have attempted leading in some areas but have not mastered the skill of applying it well. I do better with Bondo. What I have experienced is that the more I do, the more I see to do and don't ever seem to be able to completely finish a vehicle! jnp <img src="http://forums.aaca.org/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" />