I can't prove this, but have been around for many years in this resto thing, and have seen that lately the metal used in patch panels from the vendors has been changed to the proper stock gauge. 20 years ago (true 5 years ago too) when you ordered a floor panel it was of lighter gauge than original. Last week I ordered the same thing and it is obviously thicker and completely meets the stock criteria. I am still skeptical of its fit, but time will tell. Since Butt welding is really the cleanest, best way to weld in patch panels, use only the part of the new panel that you need and use butt weld clamps to do the work.
For those of us who have been doing this for awhile, it's nice to see the vendors finally listening to the restorers in a simple decision to use the correct metal gauge!
