1. Make sure that the bed side panels are in good shape at the curl area and the top portion near the ends of the bed side. Straighten any bent areas on the top of the bed side and make sure that the curl is round.
2. Check the fit of the teardrop panel to the end of the bed side. The teardrop panel is designed to fit to the end of the bed side curl and not inside the curl or under the top surface of the bed side. (picture 1)  The small notch on one side of the teardrop should be towards the bottom of the bed side.
3. Grind the teardrop panel as required to obtain a good fit to the end of the bed side and sand off the electro-galvanized coating next to the weld area.
4. Grind or remove the paint from the bed side around the end of the curl and top area to aid in welding the teardrop panel in place.  If you are installing on a new bed side with electro-galvanized coating, sand off the  coating in the area that will be welded.
5. Hold the panel in position and tack weld in place. (picture 2) Two tack welds at the curl area and two along the top surface should be enough to hold the panel in place. Make sure that the teardrop panel has not shifted during this procedure.
6. Weld in the spaces between the tack welds until the entire seam is welded. (picture 3)  Weld about 1/4" at a time and allow plenty of time to avoid heat build-up which could cause distortion of the teardrop or the bed side. You will be welding more than one corner of the bed side so alternate from one corner to the other to allow the welds to cool naturally before continuing.
7. Grind and file the welds as needed to smooth the surface and blend to the surrounding sheet metal. (picture 4) Fill uneven areas with plastic filler if needed and sand to desired contour.

The finished product (left) shows the bed side painted and ready to install. MAR-K teardrops are $5.00 each or the piece is free with your bed side order. Be sure to let your salesperson know you want teardrops for your bed sides. We can also weld this piece on your bed side when you order it!  Ask your salesperson about a teardrop bedside upgrade.

Thank you for buying MAR-K Quality Parts!

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