cutting rust out of long, will car fold? Options

[rjames]

I need to cut the metal out on the driver's side long (see photo below). The bottome of the long is ok, so I won't (shouldn't) have to cut that out. Do I need to secure the frame when doing this, or if the rest of the long is ok (and it is) will it hold it's dimensions? I've seen some other postings where they've made stabalizing connections that spanned from the seat belt bolt to where the door bolts on. Is this necessary for what I'm about to cut out?

As always, thanks for any and all responses!

[rjames]

I am really hoping I don't have to cut part of the door sill off, and can maybe just take the jack plate off and the part of the long underneath where the jack tube gets inserted. I think the rest is ok actually.

Rand, if I could talk you into stopping by some evening- weekend even if just for a few minutes as I'd love another set of eyes on this, seeing as this is my first *major* repair. I can tempt with beer and food... (IMG:http://www.914world.com/bbs2/html/emoticons/rolleyes.gif)
If not, no problem -either way I'm greatful for the input here- thanks! (IMG:http://www.914world.com/bbs2/html/emoticons/smile.gif)