Rocker Panel Holes - Open or Closed?

[OffTheAir]

Hi guys!

So I'm kind of stumped as to what I should do regarding the plugs in the bottom of my rocker panels (recently replaced) in order to protect them from future corrosion. The internet has been super polarizing and there really just isn't that much to go off of to help make my decision.

 

After I had the rust repaired, the body shop who did the repair left some of the holes open and told me it would help with drainage as the plugs were keeping all the moisture trapped into the rocker panel. However, when I went to get my truck rustproofed, the guy doing the oil spraying highly advised against doing so and stated that while it might open ways for water to go out, it will also allow more things to get in.

 

It seems like it is literally 50/50. What do you guys think? What would you do?

 

Right now, I sprayed the inside of both of the rockers and plugged up all of the holes and in the spring I'm planning on opening them up again. Is there anything wrong with this method?

Thanks!!

[Grumpy Bear]

Unless they made a change between 2014 and 2015 the other side of the panel also has holes that are uncovered. Crawl under and have a look see. I use them to spray these panels. You will also note a hole above in the front door jamb where cowl water runs down inside the rockers. Don't know what you used for rustproofing, but a lanolin-based product will make the decision almost moot. IMHO. Keep the outside ones covered.