Body/chassis clearance

[EXCEL V8]

Hi Guys

So I don't have to wait 'till my body goes back on - can anyone remind me how much space there is between the body and the top of the chassis in the area of the handbrake lever?  ISTR it's about 1/4" to 3/8".  I want to fabricate a strengthening plate for that area to reduce flexing.

Thanks

Pete

[tom kilner]

Well Pete I thought someone might know the real  answer! My 79 elite has 8mm of closed cell foam there and I assume the body makes light contact.

[EXCEL V8]

Brilliant!  Thanks Tom.  I'll use some 1/4" aluminium plate.  The nearside handbrake mounting bracket that is welded to the ratchet quadrant was all bent out of shape - so I've strengthened that up by replacing the welded-on bit with some thicker steel.  Reducing the flex around the chassis aperture will stop it twisting out of shape again in the future.

Pete

[Tony D]

Pete

Is it too late to answer this. Maybe you've already made your plate. My body is on, and handbrake, but I can take a deeper look if it would help. 

Tony 

[EXCEL V8]

Thanks Tony but I'm sorted!  Made the reinforcing plate from 1/4" aluminium alloy plate - worked a treat.

Pete