Engman Kit Install, Couple questions... Options

[TargaToy]

For the driver's side, is the general practice to remove the P-brake handle resting post or relieve the Engman panel and leave the post in place?

Also, I've read a couple opinions about how much "spread" to introduce to the door way to allow for shrinkage after the tub cools down--and to compensate for sag in the body once it's back on its wheels.

What's my best strategy?

[TargaToy]

Thanks, guys.

What I have is braces I made from 1" square tubing with integral turnbuckles. They fasten at the upper shoulder belt mount and are tacked on top of the longs as far forward as i could get them. The reason for this was so I could adjust them with the doors in place. I kept the roof clipped in place and then removed the door so I could cut out the inner longs, jack post area, and wheelhouse. All that grunt work is done now with new steel in place and I finally made the plunge on getting the Engman kit. Trouble is, my braces are on top of the longs--interfering with where the stiffening kit will go.

My plan (which I started today) is to grind the welds and pull out one brace at a time. I will then clamp the Engman side piece in place and weld it just in the area which would be under the foot of my chassis brace so I could re-tack the brace. Then, put the door back on to check gaps again, adjust the brace as necessary, remove door, and finish welding in the kit.

I just wasn't sure if it was as easy as that or if I needed to actually put expansion tension on my braces as I have read in the past.

And then the P-brake post also raised the question. I had never seen anyone else addressing it being in the way of fitment. I will say I was blown away by the design, quality, and finish of the kit's parts. Nice stuff to say the least.