Auto body repair & detailing: 71 mustang restoration, mustang restoration, mustang fastback

Question
Is a 1973 quarter panel fastback able to be used for a 1971 mustang fastback. I heard there were differences but I have original 73 cut off at factory welds and I would like to use it. Also, frame floors and trunk pan are very solid but some surface rust on bottom and interior from sitting in a barn. Whats the best way clean and coat so it doesn't get any worse? Thank You, any help is good.

Answer
According to my Cross Canada parts catalogue, quarter panels are the same from 71-73 only on a fastback. Hard top and convertible use a different quarter. Just a note: as for fenders, 71-72 are the same but 73 is different again. As for the floor and trunk, the ultimate way to remove the rust would be sandblasting. If this is not possibile, using an 80 grit grinding pad/disc should produce a satisfactory result. Be sure to sand down to 180 grit. Use a good quality high build epoxy primer to re-coat the surface. Hope this helps.