what gauge is this panel

[tforturton]

I posted this up on the general chat page, but no replies so far. What gauge is the steel that makes up the rear side inner panels? I want to tack weld a new plate to take a seat backrest peg, but it looks like pretty thin steel to me. Any ideas what gauge it is?

[Macflai]

I posted this up on the general chat page, but no replies so far. What gauge is the steel that makes up the rear side inner panels? I want to tack weld a new plate to take a seat backrest peg, but it looks like pretty thin steel to me. Any ideas what gauge it is?

[hotpod]

i use 18g for bodywork repairs which seems to be bang on.

[mm289]

Can't comment on that specific panel (Mike will probably be along soon and will know exactly) but most of the OG panels I have come across seem to be about 1.2mm which is between 16 and 17 gauge. Most replacement panels are 1.00mm which is 18 gauge.

MM

[Plasticman]

the backrest plate spans the recess on the side doesnt it, can go take a picky tomoz
i think i made a pair for coopers van, i used 16g with a captive nut welded to the rear,
as for repair steel , well it depends on the repair but 1mm would be the absolute minimum anywhere, i try use 1.2 and thicker
mm

[tforturton]

I'm not repairing it - I want to fix the plate to it, but don't want to blast a hole through the panel with my very limited welding skills. I last used a MIG welder in the late eighties - still have it!

[Plasticman]

who said you were repairing it

this what you need/are on about?
mm

[Macflai]

Finally a pic!! Didn't know what were you talking about!!

[Plasticman]

ah but this may not be what is required
mm

[tforturton]

Great pic - that's exactly what I'm talking about. I have to weld two of those plates in place (one either side), and with my limited skills, I'm concerned about blowing a hole through the inner panel. Any advice gratefully received.

[Plasticman]

oh uae a bit of 2mm . the recess is to ensure that when the trim panal goes over it then the pin base doest interfere with it,
if its just for a seat back lock then drill some 8mm holes in the plate and puddle weld through into/onto the inner wing panal
mm

[tforturton]

Okay thanks - will I need to grind a spot clean on the inner panel?

[Plasticman]

yes it does help , that said i often blast through all sorts but as a rule you want it cllean and rust free as you will get a better weld,
practice on a bit of scrap with an offcut with holes in to simmulate ther actual part oh and also that means try it vertical unless your goingf to tip't van on its side
mm