tunnel cover support ?

[seahawkfan]

I was starting to cut the floor out so I can have access to the top of the NP435 I just put in. I forgot there is a support under there. Before I cut through that I figured I should ask how important that is. Should I brace the tunnel somehow? What have you guys done? Pictures are always nice.

Hopefully one of the pics I will atach will show what I am talking about..

Thanks, again,
Jeff

[House]

When in doubt, HACK IT OUT!

On a serious note, I myself have not seen anyone put any additional bracing back in after cutting it...

[Broncrick]

Jeff, like House said, I haven't seen anyone replace it. I am putting my cover back on now using a heavy ga steel screwed down. Should be fine
Rick-

[seahawkfan]

That's what I was hoping for.

Thanks,
Jeff

[CityHick]

I cut mine out after seeing many, many examples of similar cuts made by other bronco guys on here and on CB. I've even tested my floor to a certain extent after cutting the tunnel top off with no noticeable difference. I've got an idea in mind to reinforce the sheetmetal cover (that I still need to make) both for aesthetics and for getting some of that strength back. I will post pictures of whatever I come up with, should I do anything beyond basic sheet metal (and riv-nuts...)

[seahawkfan]

sweet, I'm past the point of no return now. I'm not as fancy as you guys, I'm going to use short sheet metal screws. Wait till you see my paint job though.

[blwngsket]

Mine's been cut out since the day I bought it in 1987. No problems to report, and yes, it ran some of the time.

[69 broncosport]

I've never seen one replaced, Just cut it out