Under license plate rot

[Jocigar]

How would you fix this?  the rest of the tail panel is in great shape.   I have two cars with same issue.  thx

[burdar]

You could patch it but you'd probably have less time in just replaceing the entire tail panel.  Besides...there's most likely some hidden rust that you can't see right now.   Strip the entire panel and see exactly what you have to work with. 

[72cudamaan]

   But I did just recently see that somebody
does offer a patch panel for that area.

[Giveitawack]

I had the same problem on my -70.
Ended up detaching the trunk lock bracket and the license plate "box".
Made a patch panel and welded in.
Sandblasted the license plate box, painted the hidden areas and welded it in.
There was rust under the tail lights, around many of the holes for the trim.
Patched all these areas.
Some leadwork and shaped the edges.
A lot of work but it looks OK.