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Gauge of metal for patching

Posted: Tue Dec 15, 2009 9:21 pm
by IanC
Hi,

Can anyone tell me please if there is a standard gauge for metal to be used in patching inner body panels - front inner wings, front crossmember, floor pans etc.

I have a lot of these panels where the edges have rotted away but the main panel is still ok, rather than just replacing the entire panel I thought I would try making up some repair patches.

Thanks in advance,
Ian

Posted: Tue Dec 15, 2009 9:28 pm
by Mogwai
I use 18swg for most of the body repairs I've done. some bits are a little thicker like the inner sill

Posted: Tue Dec 15, 2009 10:38 pm
by taupe
I agree with Mogwai although a lot of the panels were 20 swg (1mm) if in doubt use 18swg (1.2mm approx) as you want to add strength and welding in repair sections will inevetably be slightly weaker than the original so you can make up a bit by using slightly thicker steel.

For the step sills and boxing panel 16swg (1.5-1.6mm), the main crossmember was I believe 14swg (2mm) welded back to back.