I have read past threads on the merits of the full pan vs. partial section and I have some rusting and crumbling sections. I am considering replacing the entire shooting match. If anyone has done the full pan, what needs to be removed to get the pan into a convertible from above. Obviously the seats, but do you need to remove the dash or steering wheel, rear trim panels? Also, what needs to be disconnected from below (i.e. exhaust hangers, driveshaft, rear leaf springs, etc.)? I have read estimates of about 25 hours for a professional to do this work, is that about right?
I would remove your entire interior and anything that you don't want ruined by weld spatter. The tinyest piece of spatter will stick even to glass. From below, remove anything you're able to remove easily or are going to replace anyway (drive shaft, brake & fuel lines). Also note that the floor holds the rear subframe mounts in so you will need to block both the body and subframe up. You may need to remove the steering wheel to turn the floor at the angle you need to insert from above, otherwise it shouldn't be a problem.
We did mine on a rotisserie. The sides and H brace get welded in from below so be prepared for a lot of welding on your back. The full floor is a very nice piece IMO.
I did mine on a rotiserrie also. As Hammered said, remove anything that could get splattered, and be sure to get the extra "H" braces needed for the floor. They don't come installed. You may want to put them on before you install the floor so that you can eliminate some of the welding on your back, with splatter in your face. Be sure to mark the cutout for the shifter and any mounting holes on the tunnel before you trash the old floor. Also, the leaf spring eye brackets mount to the floor right next to the frame rail ends, so they will also need to be removed.
Rocky has some good suggestions. I was able to save my old H braces and seat pans and you should be able to do the same if they are worth it and you drill out the spot welds. Get yourself at least three spot weld cutters or bits for this job. Also, you need to weld the floor in first and then the H brace or you won't be able make all the floor to rocker welds.
