Hot Rods 1940 Ford Pickup Bed assembly question

I purchased a 1940 Ford pickup box from Midwest Early Ford, I have assembled it and have a question. There are 2 pickup "bed side filler panels" that fill the gap between the top of the running board and the bed side. There are no holes to indicate the filler panel gets bolted in place to the box, should it be welded to the box? I hesitate to weld it permanently to the box as it looks like it would make handling the complete box assembly allot more cumbersome with them just hanging in mid air. The instructions don't indicate what to do, what have you done with these panels? Any reason I should not bolt them on?
Thank You

 

My '46 has the panels bolted on from the factory. I installed them after the bed was in place and before installing the running boards.

 

My originals are bolted on.

 

You talking about these panels?

I used aluminum pop rivets. Easy enough to drill out if I have to disassemble the bed. Much easier than nuts and bolts.

 

I fastened each side together with four 10-32 machine screws. Nylock nuts are best for these so they don't vibrate loose.

 

Have done 3 beds bolted all 3 can even be done after boards are on if you pre drill holes

 

Big question Billy is what is this creepy animal thing in the background?

 

Looks to be a pterodactyl making off with my Crown! I knew I have been going through too much.

 

That is the panel,

 

They aren't something that is going to be R&R'd often if ever. I left them off until the bed was permanently mounted (my lift arms go under the bed right there) and attached them simply and quickly before mounting the hardwood.

 

There is a hole in the rear fender on my '41 that I thought might also attach the panel to the fender. I don't know as I'm not there yet.

 

I don't think so Joel. If there was, I welded it up when I was doing my body work.