Traveller rear alluminium panels

[PeterCat]

My traveller arrived with all the rear timber and panels removed. At least I can get at all the bits that need welding but assembling it all will be a challenge! The 4 aluminium body panels are in a 'bit of a state' with corrosion where they have been up against the wood.
Assuming that there is enough good metal remaining is it reasonable to clean and treat the corrosion on the damaged edges' any tips on this please!
If I want to replace can I simply buy a sheet of aluminium and cut my own? or is it cost effective just to buy them.
Could I not just buy steel and cut that instead?
Thanks for any advice.

[King Kenny]

It is difficult to give you a good answer without seeing the panels. But I would say that if the corrosion is only on the surface you could reuse them. If they are beyond saving then you could find a sheet of suitable aluminium and cut them out. However, it would be more cost effective to buy them ready made, it will save you a lot of work and save your fingers.

[PeterCat]

been investigating further. I could save about £50 to £70 by buying new aluminium sheet and cutting my own. That may be peanut to some but significant to me!
thing further I realise that i can use the 2 bigger panels to cut out 2 good smaller ones so I only have to buy sheet for the 2 bigger ones (800x800mm)
so saving a good bit more!
Considering how easily aluminium can dent ( from say being hit from inside by an unsecured hard object !) why should we not use body gauge steel for these panels possibly rust? but then the aluminium corrodes, extra weight ? Minimal.

[simmitc]

The flat door panels and rear quarter panels are easy to cut. The two front panels are more difficult as not only do you have top cut them, but shape the curves as well, and cut to allow for those curves. Unless you have good metal shaping facilities and ability, I would buy the front and save a few quid by cutting the others.

Seal between the panel and wood with "dum-dum" or similar mastic. Panels must be fitted before the timber frame is on the car, otherwise you cannot reach all of the screws.