Sport Trac Adrenalin rocker panel issues

[Ad_Rush_ST]

Hello all, first time posting here. I recently picked up a '09 Sport Trac Adrenalin with about 90k miles. The truck is in good shape with one exception, I noticed the running boards at the rear doors dipped whenever you step on them.... figured a broken or loose bracket was the culprit. After reaching under to check the bracket, I pulled a handful of rotten metal from the bracket area. Further inspection revealed rusted rocker panels on both sides from the rear can to about mid way towards the front. Taking it to a shop this week for a repair estimate, however, I'm curious to know if others have had similar issues with their STs. And if so, what did you do to fix it....cut it the old and weld in new rockers or replace the whole door/shell assembly.

 

[Banjoman47]

I'm new to the site but I'm sure you found a solution by now. Your issue isn't an ST issue alone but common to Explorer's in general and especially if the vehicle is subject to winter conditions requiring salt on the roadways. I recently purchased an '08 Limited and discovered highly rusted rockers. A body shop I've used in the past recommended that I take it to a classic resto shop as they would have experience in rust remediation. Whereas, they (the body shop) only perform full production replacement, meaning; the cab from about halfway down would be replace. $$$$ So I took my ST to Southern Classics and they examined it and stated that it was mostly the outer metal affected and that if the inner cladding wasn't compromised, the cost would be as bad. It wasn't. So all the rust was cut out and their fabrication shop made new metal. The job turned out great and looks factory. I hated spending the money, I had purchased the truck and fell in love with it and intended on keeping it. I think the price was around $3K. Since the ST was a one owner and only had 62k miles on it, I still think it was worth the investment.

 

[Ad_Rush_ST]

Thanks Banjoman47. Glad you were able to get your issue resolved. Actually I haven't fixed the rockers yet. I did get a quote for about $2800 from an independent body guy but I thought that was on the high side. Based on your experience that might be spot on. I never thought about taking it to a custom restoration shop. I may try that option. Thanks again for the information.