Body work question

[cfriedman67]

I'am finally at the point of starting the body work on my MK4. After reading a lot of threads I have started to sand and clean up the body as per EdwardBs suggestions. One question that I have is where the fiberglass body raps under the frame (between the front and rear wheel wells) there is a screw hole that was used to hold the body in place for delivery. It has been suggested to straighten this piece. Does the fiberglass body get screwed into the frame? If not does it make sense to eliminate the screw hole by sanding it down or filling it in?

Thanks
Craig

[CraigS]

Yes it does get screwed to the underside of the frame tube. Usually two bolts per side. I have read that quite a few owners will turn the holes into slots and use fender washers on the bolts. Pulling the body in and/out can really help getting the doors more flush w/ the body.

[edwardb]

To add to what CraigS said, the body absolutely gets attached to the underside of the frame via this wraparound. You may/may not end up with the body at the same location and use the same screw hole(s) FFR used for shipping. I wouldn't worry too much about it right now though unless you're actually fitting the body. Then the final locations will be determined. Common to move those sides in/out to get the best door alignment as mentioned. If the holes aren't in the right place, super easy for them to be filled when the rest of the body work is done.

Yes, I do straighten the edge of this wraparound piece. But it wouldn't be the end of the world if you didn't. It's not visible when the car is at ride height. Only on a lift or whatever, and if that sort of thing is important to you.

[cfriedman67]

Thanks guys. Already straightened it but left the hole. Once I get the body on I can make the determination on whether to use the hole or not. Do you usually tap the hole or use sheet metal screws?

[edwardb]

Do you usually tap the hole or use sheet metal screws?

Haven't tried tapping the hole. That would probably work OK. I use 5/16-inch nutserts and flanged button head screws. I like that setup a lot, but for some is probably overkill. Some use sheet metal screws. As I recall the instructions say to use 3/16-inch rivets. Take your choice.