Thanks for the fast replies. I had not thought about trying to slip some insulation over the existing wire, or between the frame points - that just might work, and avoids the whole issue of removing that plate. Great ideas! The power of the internet, hobby forums, and helpful people!
I'm tied up for the next 2-3 days, so I won't have a chance to try this out for a little while. I will report back when I get some time with it.