Brett Baer wrote:
>
> I am in the process of building a lightweight interior for
my current
> Vanagon project, and I was wondering if someone could
offer some information
> about the European-style sheet metal that is similar to
diamond plate.  I'm
> talking about the stuff you see on the top of the
authentic Projekt2 bull
> bars, sometimes used on the top of Landrover Defender
front fenders, etc.  I
> have done some searching on google.com, but to no avail.
Is there a
> specific name for this stuff, is it possible to get it
stateside?  All info
> appreciated.

Hi Brett,

As others have already suggested, search for "chequer plate"
or "checker plate".

In the UK it is possible to obtain a synthetic chequer plate
that has the appearance of anodised aluminum but is actually
made of tough plastic.  It is much lighter than the real
thing.  It is also available in several colours and is made
in the Far East.

There is a seller on UK ebay who regularly offers this
material.  His eBay UserID is "waxacar".  An eBay search
should easily find him.  I have dealt with him several times
and he is trustworthy - he may be able to help you with a
brand name or the name of a supplier, which you could then
use to search for the material in the USA.

The chequer plate used on the Land Rover Defender is the
real thing, and like most Land Rover accessories, it costs a
fortune.  Note I did not say "a small fortune".

Good luck!

Tony