Boot panel gap

[cactusman]

Hi all. Friend of mine is restoring a series 1 OTS. It is a US import that was in a very sorry state. He has the boot refitted while still bare metal to check gaps. The gap around is 2.5 mm without paint. Does this sound right or not sufficient? Any thoughts gratefully received. Julian

[288gto]

Hi Julian,

I did mine to a pound coin all round. That is apparently 3.15mm. Make sure you do it with the rubber on as it has a tendency to push the back edge up and alter the gaps.

It's a shame I posted your parcel before seeing this. I have a large amount of stainless hinge and latch shims left over that I had laser cut, I'd have thrown some in for your friend if I'd known, sorry.


Simon

[Gfhug]

Simon, do you feel like popping a few shims in your pocket if you do make it to Angus's pole dancing day?
Cheeky I know, but if I don't ask.....

Geoff

[288gto]

Geoff,

For you, anything. Just make sure you meet me in the carpark so Angus doesn't ask for any for free.

Simon

[MarekH]

Dear Julian,

The panel gap changes as the boot lid springs open as it opens over a curved surface which is far away from the hinges. If you set the gap too small, then it will foul the bodywork (and scrape the paint) as it springs up. The minimum gap it can tolerate can easily be found by inserting a sheet of paper between the front edge and the rear bulkhead (to mimic the additional coats of paint to come and to protect what paint is already there) and operating the boot latch.

The gap at the bumper and at the sides can then be lead loaded or fillered to match.

The same logic can be applied to the side doors.

kind regards
Marek

[cactusman]

Thanks all...and Simon....If you have any spare after Geoff..my mate will be at Angus's with luck...