bspoke20

Im not sure if their actual name is "kidney bowls" but the two protruding pieces just to the front of both rear arches (invisible to the naked eye unless the rear wheels are off) - just what is their function, what exactly do they cover?

The reason I ask is that mine are rusted and need replacing and to me it looks like a flat panel could be fabricated to fit as opposed to buying over the counter "kidney bowls"...?

NineMeister

They are a structural member which form a box section with the end of the outer sill, thus providing rigidity and impact strength around the bottom rear corner of the door aperture. This is a critical part of the 911 shell design, hence why Porsche beefed up the design with later model cars to provide a more rigid platform with increasing performance levels.

bspoke20

Thanks ninemeister...

I guess i'm attempting to cut back on some costs of the repair, by fabricating as opposed to buying them, but would welding in a flat panel not give the same rigidity? Or is this a big no no?