Sheet metal thickness advice please

[rogerowen]

I will need to rebuild the area just ahead of the engine mount upstands. I have lots of 1.2mm sheet, is this thick enough?[frame][/frame]

[mogbob]

Roger
You should get away with the 1.2 mm 18swg but the recommendation for classic cars in general is to replace "like for like " thickness wise and if in doubt, on structural stuff.. go larger.
There's not much metal in the towers at the end of the day.If you have a local metal fabricating company, at your nearest Industrial Estate, they will normally let you buy sheet offcuts if you ask nicely !! Treat it as a dress down day and try the pleading "I only need a couple of small bits, no bigger than that, it would really help me out of a jam, etc , etc " line.You never know your luck, you might even get it for free, if you catch them in a good mood !
It saves buying a massive sheet when you only need a fraction of the metal.Avoid the galvanised sheet off cuts for obvious reasons ( not good for your health when you're welding ).
Get out the old cereal packets / cardboard / pencil/ ruler/scissors and start fabricating !! Have fun with it.
Bob

[rogerowen]

Thanks Bob, I actually have an 8' x 4' sheet of 1.2mm which came to £34 which I thought was pretty good value. Think I'll cut back the rot till I get back to 'sound' (hopefully - eventually!) and then measure and see if it's close to 1.2mm.

[green123]

I use 1.5mm steel I think its quite thick but is good steel to use. I would advise a bit thinner for body work but obviously needs to be strong enough. I payed £23 for a 8' x 4' sheet 1.5 mm thick

[rogerowen]

£23??? Gosh that was a good deal! Think I'll look at getting a bit of 1.5mm too, but don't think I'll be able to get it that cheap.

[green123]

yes £23 I was quite surprised but the was the price. I got it from Parkside steel