Heater Channels, Alternate construction

[gorbur]

Looking for some opinions on alternates for the convertible reinforce channel. I have a 73 convertible needing both heater channel assemblies replaced. The repro heater channel and rocker are fine and I want to go with those. The problem I'm having is with the reinforce channel.
The reinforce channel is dimensionally identical to the original but seems lacking. Almost like an after thought for VW. To me it should continue aft to the rear extention.
If I go that route I also am thinking of a new profile that I could do with two brake bent pieces of similar 14 ga stock. I see some have done it with heavier wall stock and skipping the CV reinforcement but i want to keep the heater channels as close to original as possible.

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73 - Ghia Cabriolet, currently under resto
76 - Type1, 1776, full restomod

[kman]

not really necessary since the reinforcement goes past where the body tends to sag or fold. The indents add some structure as well beyond the flat gauge metal.

If you feel like it needs to be extended then buy a 3rd reinforcement panel and use the extra to lengthen the other 2. Your solution would likely work fine but you may be creating more work than you want to.
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71 vert build. http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=572951&highlight=dead

[gorbur]

Thanks kman.
I think i'll get a 3rd as you suggest and splice. Not so much to supplement the heater channel at that point but to strengthen the cv reinforcement channel. Not really too much extra at this point.
In starting the rebuild of the A pillar & lambchop I see its just as much a weak point for the assembly. In taking the lower front fender off I noticed its double skinned. Betting that has something to do with it too.
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73 - Ghia Cabriolet, currently under resto
76 - Type1, 1776, full restomod