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Does the reproduction firewall insulation for midyear Corvettes come with slits that will permit installation over the steering collumn, etc., or is it necessary to remove everything that goes through the firewall first?
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Re: Firewall Insullation
Mark,
I've just finished the operation on my '65. Indeed, to do the job right, you'll need to pull most of the items you mentioned. Having been through it once, it isn't nearly as big a chore as you might imagine. The pedal assembly removes easily, about half a dozen bolts. The column pulls out easily, too, (assuming nothing's badly rusted!) An interesting part is the Parking Brake. It was designed to have the brake assembly unscrewed from the bolted casting, and the casting left in place on the firewall when you assemble the insulation. My two parking brake pieces were hopelessly stuck together, so I cut a slit in the insulation with the bandsaw, installing the insulation and Parking Brake at the same time.
I guess it would be possible to slit the insulation around all the above, but you would probably end up with a pretty cobbled up job. Plus, getting everything out of the way sure makes the job a lot easier. This is also a good time to check out your cluster, since you will have complete access to the back of the panel.
One tough part is installing the rubber fasteners. I ended up lubricating these with some Vaseline, then forcing them throught the holes in the firewall using a drift and 'gentle persuasion'.
Drop me an E mail directly, or we can chat if you would like any more information...
Jim -
Re: Firewall Insullation
Mark,
I've just finished the operation on my '65. Indeed, to do the job right, you'll need to pull most of the items you mentioned. Having been through it once, it isn't nearly as big a chore as you might imagine. The pedal assembly removes easily, about half a dozen bolts. The column pulls out easily, too, (assuming nothing's badly rusted!) An interesting part is the Parking Brake. It was designed to have the brake assembly unscrewed from the bolted casting, and the casting left in place on the firewall when you assemble the insulation. My two parking brake pieces were hopelessly stuck together, so I cut a slit in the insulation with the bandsaw, installing the insulation and Parking Brake at the same time.
I guess it would be possible to slit the insulation around all the above, but you would probably end up with a pretty cobbled up job. Plus, getting everything out of the way sure makes the job a lot easier. This is also a good time to check out your cluster, since you will have complete access to the back of the panel.
One tough part is installing the rubber fasteners. I ended up lubricating these with some Vaseline, then forcing them throught the holes in the firewall using a drift and 'gentle persuasion'.
Drop me an E mail directly, or we can chat if you would like any more information...
JimComment
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PS on Firewall insulation...
Mark,
Just reread my message. Be aware that there are two sets of firewall insulation - upper and lower. I replaced both, using a spray adhesive on the upper, actually worked out fairly well. From the other messages you have posted, I gather that you are also reworking your heater ducting. I've just finished this, too, with fibreglass repair on the ducting, since I found numerous holes, cracks, etc.
Best wishes to you in your effort. Please let me know if I can help.
JimComment
-
PS on Firewall insulation...
Mark,
Just reread my message. Be aware that there are two sets of firewall insulation - upper and lower. I replaced both, using a spray adhesive on the upper, actually worked out fairly well. From the other messages you have posted, I gather that you are also reworking your heater ducting. I've just finished this, too, with fibreglass repair on the ducting, since I found numerous holes, cracks, etc.
Best wishes to you in your effort. Please let me know if I can help.
JimComment
Comment