82 cj7 Patch panel question

Guys i got a really rough cj7 tub. Im taking on the chore of rebuilding it. The rear tub brace all the way to the rear with the body mounts is completely rusted out. Anyone have any ideas of what i can use to male another one. I know i can buy it BUT im cheap and broke on this build. Also i am not restoring it so it doesnt need to be a1 on the dot looking like it needs to be from the factory. I was thinking about using 2 L shaped 1/8 pieces of metal and welding them together to make a box. That way i can tie in the floor and the rear quarters to it. Anyone have any other ideas?

 

sign post.....

 

sign post? whats that mean?

 

I think he means to use the steel post that street signs (STOP, YIELD, etc.) are mounted to, to replace your rusted out hat channel.

Rich

 

yup pretty rugged and easy to get