Next spring when things warm up, I'll be tackling the job of replacing rockers, cab corners, and box due to rust (Wisconsin). What are some good vendors to go thru for quality, replacement parts? I'd like to be able to get parts that don't need body filler (besides the seams). Also, do fenders come in different thickness/gauge? I'd like to stick to the thickest I can get and do it right the first time.

Truck is an '04 Quad Cab 4x4 with 128K. I'm also planning on upgrading the front fenders and headlights to the '06-'08 body.

 

Genuine mopar would be your best bet for quality, fit, and finish. If they are available......

 

Check LMC truck as well.

 

Some panels are available, but the major ones are discontinued. I've been looking for my 05.

As for the 06 front clip, you'll need fenders, grill, bumper, headlights. Me personally I think who ever designed that front look needs to be taken behind the wood shed and beat with a rubber hose....... But that's just me. To boxy lookin. Same reason I won't ever but a third gen Dakota.

 

Any repop is going to take effort to make it look right. Best bet is unrusted used, or new OEM. But new OEM, if you can find it, will be expensive. I think there is one chinese stamp company out there with a pile of resellers.

Haven't repaired a 3rd gen that way yet. For my 2nd gen, I bought alot of body parts. FixMyRust.com is one that I used for a rocker. Bought another rocker new locally. Doors, fenders, hood, and tailgate were unrusted used.

Good luck!