[dataway]

Bob ... you have a 68 or 69? I assume 68 because later years the whole freakin structure seems to come out. I know what you mean, first time I laid on my back and looked up there I was a bit put off by all the rust.

It's not a huge deal to cut it out ... EXCEPT .. for the parts that attach to the upper dash metal that contains the VIN, radio grill etc. You can split it across the top edge that is hidden behind the padded dash and leave the upper metal section with the speaker grill etc. When welding it back in you have to make sure to space it to account for the kerf of whatever you used to make the cuts.

I replaced all the lower metal on mine from a donor car because of radio hole damage, damage from where someone tried to steal a tach out of it etc. Figured it was easier than trying to patch up the old dash in place.

Anyway, if it's just the dusty red surface rust, the dust brushes off pretty easy with a small wire brush, but it is tedious work on your back .... then blow it off with air and spray on some rust converter, it works real good on that kind of rust.

If I was in your shoes and the rust wasn't heavy, I'd leave it in place and spend some time on my back. If it's heavily pitted .... that would be your call on removing the structure.