Another van noob with grandiose plans!

[emillika]

I recently acquired a 2000 Quigley extended cargo van with a V10. Rust is present on the lower rockers and side panels.

Debating getting a donor body vs fixing the rust with panels.

[EmMay]

Panels in my opinion, depending on destruction of rust of course, that way you get in the mode of self reliant building and set the monetary stage for doing other things like solar, propane, heaters, PH etc. ...
Have fun and map out what you need in the long run and make a budget. Get the most bang for the buck at every turn.