To get the gearshift rod out of the car, the spare wheel housing has a recess at the rear which is closed off by a plate. A similar plate is used to access the steering box, so that there are two, depending on whether the car is driven on the left or right. One of the two plates has no function.
Both the control rod inspection plate and the steering box inspection plate are clamped to one side of the sheet, and secured with a screw on the other.
After removing the shift rod plate, you have access to the chassis tunnel, and the shift rod can be removed. The plate behind which the steering box is located gives access to the steering box adjustment.
These plates are often painted in the body color. There's nothing wrong with this, but if you opt for the original, this plate should be black.
Excessive rust, disappearance or loss during restoration are the most common reasons for buying a new cover plate.
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