1930 coupe floor pan replacing weld or rivit?

I agree with Dave and Mike. Ford welded a lot of stuff together, but they rivited the frame together and many other items on the body. They must have had a good reason (flexing and movement as Mike indicated) as welding would have probably been easier, but they riveted many panels when they were installed.
Rusty Nelson
 
Welding will stiffen the floor area locally, so when the car flexes, that welded floor panel will absorb more load than it if it were riveted. This could lead to some buckling of the welded panel. Stick with rivets or screws, and use some waterproof caulking as anti-squeak material.
 
I used screws on mine. It was quick and easy. Mine aren't for national judging but for enjoyment. If need be I can easily remove and replace the floor panels.
 
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