I have been talking to a body shop owner about patching holes in fenders and doors. He is a firm believer in using galvanized steel to form the patches. Isn't there some concern over reactions between regular and galvanized steel that may result in trouble for the later paint work?

I wouldn't expect a galvanized finish to allow a good bite for primer but I don't have any personal experience in that area. I do know that welding galvanized steel produces some wicked zinc fumes, so I would reconsider the galvinizing (unless someone else is welding!).

Find another shop. Galvanized will burn off when welded and paint adhesion can be a problem if not done properly.

I used some galvanized on the underbody\floor portion, but I wouldn't use it for exterior body panels.

why do I think I remember that the rockers were fully galvanized from the factory?

If I'm not mistaken all car maunfacturers use galvanized sheetmetal on body panels and etching primer was designed firstly for these panels then plastic filler on top of this primer on repaired areas. I'm not sure when they started this practice but my 97 silverado came with 2-sided galvanized sheetmetal according to the literature, It can also be welded on fairly easily but does produce some toxic fumes I believe.

When welding galvanized sheetmetal it will produce cyanide gas as the galvanize burns. I you breath the fumes it can be hazardous to your health. Blisters in throat and mouth and swelling of the throat.

When welding galvanized sheetmetal you will notice a yellow looking smoke and it will produce cyanide gas as the galvanize burns. I you breath the fumes it can be hazardous to your health. Blisters in throat and mouth and swelling of the throat.

Thanks for all of the replies. I was aware that the rockers were made with galvanized steel.

Also etch primers MUST have the proper metal conditioner and converter used or the etch will not adhere to the panel