wheelwell opening strength

i think im going to use 5/8 tube for the wheel opening on my bed so the damn bed sides dont flop around and use cross supports similar to the new issue of minitruckin.does this sound about right or is there a better way?

I just used 3/16" solid round and bent it to shape and welded it in place. Its thin enough to bend around by hand but plenty strong after its welded in place. Also it gives you more clearance after its in place.

In usually hammer and dolly the lip then add some cross braces

I'm with Chris but I use 5/16 round bar....bend it to the shape of the fender lip and weld it solid. Works wonders on the front fenders....you won't see a truck come out of my shop with fucked up front fenders...I roundbar them all. It's smooth so if you turn into it it just rubs...it don't cut and gouge the tires. Gives it enough support to not crease...yet it flimsy enough to move if you do hit it. Great mod....

When you trim the fender lip leave just enough so you can bend it over the rod to the curve and shape of the fender. After you get the bends right hold it up to the fender and tack it in place. Next start rolling the lip that you left overhang over the solid round. Then tack weld the seam all the way across. This is what I did on mine then finished the back sides with bodyfiller primer and paint. Its smooth, strong, and looks great finished. Jerry, I think your right about the 5/16", now that I think about it.