Reducing thickness of garage beams?

I need some advice....

We've just upsized our vehicle to fit in all the kids, and have bought a VW Multivan. Problem is, it's 197cm in height. We live in an old house where the original stables have been converted into a garage/carport (no door) and there are two structural beams that are both 198cm above the ground. I'm a bit worried that the theoretical 1cm clearance is going to cause problems when there are big temperature changes, a fast entry into the garage etc.

Can I take any thickness out of the beams (maybe a few cm's for the width of the car) to give more of a safety factor? One is 200x50mm and the other (bearing a lot less weight) is 140x50mm.

If It's safe, what's the best method?

All advice appreciated... and I wont hold you responsible if the garage falls on my new car.

cheers.


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