Alright so here's the dilemma...
I am the proud owner of an 89 4runner but she is having some serious rust issues on the back two quarter panels, just like every other 1st gen. I have the opportunity to pick up two rust-free quarter panels, but I don't know what to do next, Here are my two options...

1. Should I cut the old rust out and tack weld a cut-out of the new panels on the back?

2. Should I take the topper off and all the trim and take the entire rusty quarter panel off and replace it with the new one? (If so, how do you take the rear quarter off?? It looks like it's riveted in.)

Any other suggestions or tips would be greatly appreciated!!!

 

Not exactly sure how to remove rear quarter panels but if it's like the front fenders it should just be a couple bolts. And if I were you I would try to replace the whole fender, depending on how hard it is to remove that seems like the easier option.

 

The rear quarters are spot welded on.

 

Good Spot weld cutter of the correct size.

Center punch drill a 1/8" pilot hole go to town use a good lube to help keep the cutter cool.

Pictures Just how bad are they??

 

If you are able to take the time to do the work, then yes spot weld cutter and remove the top and all the trim around the back.

If it were me and I was doing this, I would strip the whole interior, seats and all. Probably put some bedliner on the floor while I was at it.