The old pickup is lookin' great Steve! I have a big block of brass in the tool box, just stop by and grab it anytime! Welding the holes shut isn't a real big deal, just watch out for getting too much heat in the panel, it can warp easy. I'd suggest you weld one, then let the panel cool before you do the next...or if you have a long lead on your welder you can switch from side to side, or at least skip around on the side you're welding! Saves a lot of pingin' and dingin' later.