Gizze, I opted to remove the metal strip, clean it up, and then re-install with pop rivets after paint work was completed. I installed some self adhesive sponge weatherstripping (about 3/8") on top of the strip to prevent water coming in. I also ordered a part in this area from Sue Miller, called the 'secondary seal'. What she supplied was a short length of press on weather seal that I installed on the curved finned bit on the top front of the door.
I am not sure how all this was put together in stock form, but I think some sort of weather sealing is required in this area. Here are some links that show some options, with a bit of the usual confusion between Elan & Plus 2. Searched on 'secondary seal door'.
elan-plus-f13/plus-door-seals-t19518.htmlelan-plus-f13/secondary-door-weatherstrip-t14880.htmlelan-plus-f13/rain-water-getting-t19436.htmlelan-plus-f13/what-this-for-t18522.htmlelan-plus-f13/secondary-door-weatherstrip-t14880-15.htmlelan-plus-f13/another-bodywork-question-t13209.htmlelan-plus-f13/water-dismay-t19918.htmlI was trying to find an old post regarding the door switches, but can't seem to find it. IIRC they may be the same switches as used on the light pods on some models? Just a shot in the dark on this one, but seem to recall a thread on this a while back. My Federal Plus 2 uses a completely different micro switch setup than what was referred to, so I didn't follow all the details and might be completely off side.
At any rate, the stock door switches are a pretty crude looking affair that switch to ground, likely used on other cars of the era. Sorry can't find more details, but seem to recall the issue being covered.
Edit to add that Ray at Rdent.com lists a somewhat suitable replacement for the door switch. To see the listing, click on Plus 2 parts and scroll pretty much to the bottom of the listings. Shows two types; I think it is the first type for our Plus 2's. Note the replacement switch is slightly different threads than stock, but it is essentially the same looking switch. My guess would be if Ray is supplying in different threads the original is NLA from regular sources, but who knows.
Courtesy Light Switch
Replacement courtesy switch for Elan Plus 2 and Europa. Threads on this switch are 5/16-18 (coarse), not the original 5/16-24 (fine). You can run a 5/16-24 tap on these threads and get an acceptable thread if you want.
Ref. 50M6006R $17.50