Multi-brand rocker panel review. PIC HEAVY!
I recently replaced the passengers rocker panel on my 71 and used a commonly available replacement rocker panel. The fit was sub-par to say the least.
lines where missing, it was cut wrong and didn't fit the cab corner. The flanges weren't formed right for both the floor and inner rocker. It was
a very disappointing replacement.
So I went on a hunt for a better option. Thanks to a fellow member I was turned on to Melnick Metal Works Inc (see very bottom of page for contact info) in Bristol CT. This fellow member dropped off a very good donor rocker from a Wagoneer and Melnicks went about re-creating it. I think the results are phenomenal.
Below is a comparison of Melnicks rocker panel, and of several others I have from various souces. They came from "Classic to Current"
(referred to as CTC from now on), Rock Auto (RA), BJ's Off road and of course Melnicks.
The RA rocker has the same part number as the CTC rocker.
The following pics and info should speak for them selves regarding the quality of the various rockers. I will say, right of the bat that the BJ's rocker is a couple of years old, and I have been told by them that some of the fitment issues have been resolved.
Note that all but the Melnicks are meant as weld in replacements with all flanges prebent. This implies they are more or less ready to weld in as is. The Melnick rockers have no side flanges, and are made longer than necessary to allow for better custom fitting. All the other rockers need material added in (to lengthen them) as they are incorrectly angled on the cab corner side as you will see.
Also note this isn't intended to bash any company or their products. I'm just stating my experiences with them from handling, comparing and installing one of them. My opinions on them are my own, yours may vary.
First off, from top to bottom: Melnick, BJ's, CTC and RA. Ignore the smudge on the RA. All but the Melnicks rocker have a form of anti rust coating on them. The Melnicks are oiled.
From bottom to top: Melnick, BJ, CTC and RA.
Close up of the product stickers. The Melnicks has non.
BJ's.
CTC
RA. As you can see, this one has been around a while. Note the PN is the same as the CTC rocker.
1963 J300/1971 J2000/1983 J10