I am in the process of replacing the trunk floor with the RD repair panel. I have read the ~8 threads I could find on this subject but unfortunately didn't find all my answers.
My cross member supporting the gearbox is in good shape and I don't intend to remove any metal there as I really don't see any reasons why.
From what I can see, the trunk floor is one piece and is embossed across to create the top half of the cross member as shown in my crappy sketch...
Click to view attachment
The bottom of the cross member shaped in a flanged "U" is spot welded to the floor creating the boxed beam. A reinforcement is added to the middle section (partial width) to increase strength.
I fully understand how to deal with the sides and back. Straight forward rosette welds after prepping the new panel, just like RD design video. But what is the preferred way to attach the cut down repair panel to the back edge of the cross beam?
Click to view attachment
The second sketch is one thought I had where I would cut the floor at the rear edge of cross member and I would drill the spot welds of the partial width reinforcement to slide the repair panel in between. Rosette weld everything back.
Any comments of suggestions to share would be greatly appreciated.