Hot Rods Model A rear fender brace

I'm fitting the rear fenders on my 28 Sport Coupe. The fenders that were originally on the car were torn to pieces. I got the fenders where they met up with the running boards and 1/4 panel, and I started to install the rear braces. I had noticed that both were bent a little different. What I found out is that both are badly bent. I've been using some heat and attempting to get them into shape. The picture are of the first one after numerous bends.

My question is; should the brace be touching the fender or does it only have to line up with the outer flange? Right now it more or less follows the fender, but doesn't touch except on the outer edge. View attachment 4958416 View attachment 4958416 View attachment 4958417 View attachment 4958418

 

Can you compare to the old fender where you will need to meet the brace hole in the fender. Looks close to me

 

You don't want the brace to pull the fender if it looks right without the brace. Can you space it with washers?

 

My question isn't where the fender lip touches the brace, but should the body of the brace touch the fender. If you look at the last picture, the center of the brace does not touch the fender. Should it touch or is it okay as long a I can bolt it to the outer lip of the fender?

 

The old fenders were badly torn up and I got rid of them maybe 8 years ago.

 

I use these between the fender and the brace, they're called fender brace clips.

 

Thanks.

 

You're welcome!

 

I dont even have the rear braces on my '29 Coupe. In my opinion they arent needed. My fenders are super solid and dont wiggle even when you push on the lower corner.
The only caveat is my taillights are in the back of the body so I dont have stock type taillight stands potentially causing vibrations. That would be the only reason I could see using them.

 

No.
Just at the attachment points.

 

I agree

 

Thanks, that's what I was wondering.