Should there be a clearance between the backglass and the front of the mech panel so they're not touching?

There is a groove all the way around the backbox that the backglass goes in from the top so the question is how far should the mech panel be from the groove or should it be flush with the groove?

There are four screws that go through the backbox on the sides holding the mech panel in place. I may have to fill in the old screw holes and drill new ones after repairing the mech panel then re-position it in the backbox if necessary.

Bruce

20170806_150019 (resized).jpg

20170806_150121 (resized).jpg

What clearance would you recommend? This is a 1953 Williams and fortunately no foam was used. I'm thinking the mech panel should be close to the backglass to light it properly but how close is safe? (I'm planning to use the warm frosted white LED bulbs and the backglass will be sealed).

Thanks,
Bruce

I may have to do that. I'll check the clearance after repairing this mech panel. (Someone screwed rectangular wood pieces too tightly against the middle back of the mech panel for years causing what you see in the photos)

Also the bottom corner piece was incorrect and I removed it. I need to either make or find the right triangular brace for that area

Bruce

Wood piece (resized).jpg

Thanks guys. I'll try this after repairing the backbox board.

Bruce

That's a good idea and (yes that's what I have.) I'll give it a try. I was fortunate the broken backbox board didn't break the glass and that most of the artwork is still good. (it's in my avatar) This is a game you don't come across often.

Bruce