Technical Metal forming a core support - advice needed

I’m in the process of rebuilding the bottom of my core support (18 ga) on my 60 Ranch Wagon and debating on building it in plate form then bending, welding versus trying to form/shrink the metal into shape. I’m confident with the plate/welding approach but I’ve never tried to shrink that much material to produce a shape. The last pic is the stiffener (14 ga) that I produced with the plate/welding approach. Any thoughts are appreciated.

 

A man’s got to do what a man’s got to do.
It’s good to know your limitations.

 

Could bend it straight in a sheet metal brake

then cut it to form the shape. I’ve done that with rain gutters for trunks before.
Saves a good bit of welding.
I’ve also beat metal into submission before to make parts like that.

2 halves and an end

 

At 18 gauge I'd be a little concerned that the grinding of the welds to make it look pretty / factory might run the risk of grinding away the strength. Possibly increase to 16? Your 14g fabrication looks well. And agreed on the folded sections. Doable with no special tools.

Chris

 

Where about along the Warrior River

I’m a central bama resident

 

I lived in Loachapoka for four years!