Fitting an Apex Panel (or A Panel)

[cobolman]

Been a while since I posted but am progressing again on my 1960 Austin Seven Mini restoration

The more work I do, the more questions I end up having Today's question revolves around fitting the apex panel (or A panel as I think they're sometimes called)

I have a Magnum replacement panel and have placed it where the old apex panel used to be, following the seams on the inner apex panel.

2024-09-02_17-36-56.jpg

It seems to line up quite well except it's about 5mm too low at the base:

2024-09-02_17-44-23.jpg

I know I can cut into the door frame and/or cut the flange on the apex panel and get that to fit flat (per my sharpie pen markes on the panel). But it will still leave me with the 5mm drop, as indicated by the 5mm difference in height between the apex panel seam and the door sill seam

I've been up and down trying to think of the best way to address this but it occurred to me that there are many wiser heads here, many of whom have done this before.

I'd appreciate any advice on how would you address this issue.

[mini_surfari]

Personally I’d use a blunt chisel on that door frame (where you’ve marked) to create a recess for the A panel to slip in flush. Although it’ll be quite difficult as it looks to go over the weld in that area.

And then potentially slit the A panel and shorten the bottom of it, or beat a new lip in the appropriate area.

[cobolman]

Personally I’d use a blunt chisel on that door frame (where you’ve marked) to create a recess for the A panel to slip in flush. Although it’ll be quite difficult as it looks to go over the weld in that area.

And then potentially slit the A panel and shorten the bottom of it, or beat a new lip in the appropriate area.

Thanks for the advice. I gave it a go today and am pretty happy with the result!

[Exminiman]

Not an expert by any means, so please correct me (anyone), but presumably you will have trial fitted the front end and and doors before welding A panel in place ?

[cobolman]

I haven't welded the panel in yet as the new wings and front panel are on order and won't be here for another two to three weeks.

The inner apex panel that was originally fitted, and worked well, is still in place so I *thought* it would be a simple case of removing old outer apex panel and inserting new outer apex panel. Not so, as my opening post says.

All that said, I had intended to attach the door and then align the apex panel with the door. Wouldn't that be the right approach?

I welcome any advice and opinions

[mini_surfari]

Yeah I would try the door on for size!

Does the door need reskinning too or any repairs? As I would undertake those first.

If it fits well, I would tack the a-panel in place, and then try on the front end.

Ps Maybe it’ll be worth Starting a build thread and then all these query’s can be answered alongside enjoying your progress?