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MG MGA - Back end profile

Please refer to the hasty sketch of the profile of my (MGA) rear end, that is the bit just below the rear of the boot floor. I am having to adjust the shape to original and that's about how it is now. My question relates to the fold on the lower edge, as it forms a place for mud and water to collect. Should the lip of that bottom edge be horizontal to allow drainage?

Art Pearse

Art,
Mine is as you have drawn, with the lip going at an upward angle. Maybe that's why they all rusted out! There is also a crease on the outer part right before the lip about 1/2" high. I didn't measure it though. This is a nice reproduction piece that I welded on. Maybe someone with an original car will post.

Ralph
L Poupard

Looks just like my two Art and they are both original. They dont rust over here, probably because of the drier climate.
Barry.
Barry Gannon

Many cars have similar upward curves at the bottom edge of panels.
I assume that it is to add stiffness to the edge (reduces panel vibration).
I suggest that some small holes be drilled at the lowest point.
With or without holes you should always pay particular attention to the area when washing the car.
Clean water trapped in that area does not cause rust as much as damp dirt.

Mick
M F Anderson

AP, if your doing work to the bottom of the rear valance you might like to consider welding on a mild steel stiffening strip about 5x20 mm. I found this edge prone to distortion and vulnerable to rust. The strip straightens everything up. I drilled and spot welded the strip.
J H Cole

OK, thanks everyone.
Art Pearse

The lip on my rear valance is horizontal and not as shown on your diagram. Hence this way it does not keep any water. Besides as L Poupard indicated there is a crease about half an inch from the edge which also strenghtens this panel.
c vassallo

This thread was discussed between 13/11/2011 and 14/11/2011

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