I'd use mild steel. Stainless isn't worth the extra cost. After you get on to it replacement isn't that bad. Get a big rivet popper and 4" grinder cut off tool to cut out the worn section at a rib. Have new section long enough to slide under ends of remaing good bottom. cut out front overlaps and drill new holes to rivet to. Don't try to hit the old holes. That is like a trap shot at night.