I've got to replace the rear valance, tailpanel, passenger quarter panel, gas tank, and trunklid due to an accident the PO had. I also plan to take care of the sagging rear by replacing the old worn leaf springs and getting rid of the air shocks installed by the PO.

I'm wondering if I should replace the leafs and shocks before replacing any of the sheetmetal? My thinking is that since I'll be replacing a major part of the car's structure I don't want to add any strain by welding in the new quarter in the wrong position because of worn springs.

Am I just being paranoid?

 

I don't think worn shocks will effect the welding of body panels as long as you follow the lines of the car itself. Personally, I'd leave the old stuff in till after in fear of banging up the new stuff while installing the body panels. Just make sure your body lines are flush before you start welding and you'll be fine. Don't pay attention to the car in relation to the ground or anything else around it, just pay attention to the car itself.