I have a Mk1 Escort Auto body which has had some butchery done to the tunnel.
"I am putting a 2lt manual in it"
I have fitted and welded in a manual gear stick housing panel
but
The prior owner cut out the tunnel reinforcer so I took one out of a Mk2 body I chopped up and was saving it.
I was just trialling to align the Mk2 panel and it is odd shaped as you can see in the images and will not line up.
I have just had a look at a Mk1 Body I have and the reinforcer panel is different.
My question, is this Mk2 an odd shape for a reason compared to a Mk1
The auto tunnel and the manual tunnel should not make any difference that far back.
 
 

you got it the right way around? front facing front and vice versa!.
this is my Mk1 reinforcement panel insitu

 
Not great photos hope they help
 
JP

HI JP
yes I checked both ways, it looks like you have cut yours in 3 pieces to fit,
The Mk2 panel is not even.
 

I have worked it all out.
After looking at 3 other escort bodies I have here,
The panel I saved is the worst bit of Ford pressing a panel out I have ever seen
I would say the flat piece of metal was put in the wrong position hence stamped off set side ways
Am going to drill out another one.
 

Here is the difference.

Ahh I see, didn't recognise the fault. yes piss poor.
While replacing my floors I cut mine in 3 as I didnt have a spot weld drill handy to get to the centre section. Lent the long ones to a friend who wasn't finished so cut it in three and welded it back together. Will probably grind the welds down one day.
Glad you got to the bottom of it.
 
JP

I know where to come to when i need a Ford Guru in future!!!!!