87 560SL - rocker panel replacement

[karburn]

I have an 87 560SL where the front jack ports - actually the rocker panels around the front jack ports - are rusting. I have a couple of minor exterior spots on the corner of one door and the inside door threshold above the rocker. I realize that for every small visible rust spot, there is a much larger one behind it. One local shop told me that these are definite cut out & replace metal issues, but that he did not do "restoration work" [probably because he could not bill an insurance company for big $$$ ] I am still looking for a body shop in my area that understands these cars, but in the interim I'm seeking opinions on what would be reasonable to pay for a fix, or if it's possible to replace rocker panels on the 560SL or if it's even advisable.

I hate the thought of just letting this go, but I have found only two shops that are even willing to take a look to see if they would consider doing the work. The irony is that if the car had been broadsided by a runaway forklift and the rocker panel(s) had been pierced and I had an insurance claim, most shops would do the work. Since I just want it done, they won't consider it. The DIY route is not really an option any more for me.

Thanks for your time - any suggestions appreciated.

[karburn]

Hold those responses - I found a body shop that does Benz body work and gave me a decent bid (no guarantee on the rust part) for what I need. I called around to the indep. MB shops in town asking for referrals and got lucky, I guess.

[Johndeere]

I have an 87 300D with similar issues.
Can you give me the names of the shops.
I am in the KC area as well.

Thanks

Lance Harra
Olathe Kansas