Did I goof up? - hat channel threaded insert

[Bretto]

On doing my own hat channels, I may have done something in error.
I read recently that there was a threaded insert in the hat channel at the frame mount under the gas tank rather than just a section of tube to prevent crushing. Is this correct? Makes sence that you dont want a bolt head under the gas tank. My old hats were so rusted out and there was nothing at that sectioin that would of told me otherwise. I just assumed it was thru hole. Is that the same for the toolbox side to.
Any one have a decent close-up pic? I may just use a carriage bolt there and dimple the tank.
Thanks,
Brett

[RICKG]

OOPS Yeah, Bretto..there's a cage nut of some type in the hat.
With all the work you put into your hats and floors it may be too late
to correct it. On a good note remember that when you install your
anti-squeak pads under the tank you'll gain 3/16-1/8" clearance
between tank bottom and floor.
On the toolbox side mine is thru-bolted inside the box so no biggie there.

[Bretto]

Thanks for the bad news
Ya I thought if that were the case I would gain some clearance there with the pads. I might also be able to find a nutsert with a low enough shoulder profile that I can get to work in there.

[wesk]

You can't see the hole under the tank. Drill a hole large enough for the bolt head to fall through the floor and rest on the inner lower surface of the hat channel. If the bolt will not stop turning as you tighten the nut under the frame mount then spot weld the head of the bolt to the hat channel inner surface. You can then either plug the drilled hole shut with a welded patch or snap in plug.

[Bretto]

Good idea, thanks.