I am about to complete my chassis as per Gibbs' book but have 2-off plates CP24 left. They are either not discussed in the book or I missed that bit. I found an old thread on this forum which suggested that plates CP24 should be welded in between BR1 and BR8 and between BR2 and BR9. To be honest there is little space under the suspension brackets. In addition, I welded 5 mm thick plates for the ZETEC mounts. So my question is whether plates CP24 are really needed?

I would appreciate your opinions on the subject.

Mmm, looks like I missed them as well!! As you say, you've got the suspension brackets welded across that location, and then the engine mounts go across them as well. I can't see what else they would add?

they are there so you can weld the suspension brackets on all four corners, they ideally need to be there. these cars take a beating when driven fast on the road and i have seen poorly placed/supported suspension brackets rip off a chassis tube many many times

Just to agree that suspension can fail in everyday use. My rear trailing arms snapped on a bumpy road. It's easier to beef it up now than when the car is fully dressed. Or in a ditch.

Thanks a lot guys for your advice. You are right, Joel, it is not a problem so strengthen the brackets now. I will weld those plates in.
One more questions though. Ash, what do you mean when you say "all four corners"? I can see only two corners.

Thanks,
Tom.