Engine bay access

Was wondering if it woud create rigidity problems if I were to use a hole saw to create a (1 or 2) hole in the front and rear fire walls, with a view to getting better access to the lower inlet and exhaust manifold bolts. The bolts are very difficult to get to and this would improve the situation I think, or is this too simplistic??

The fuel tank is behind the front firewall, and rear firewall is the boot. You can do more or less what you want with the boot, as long as you kep the rigidity, but I wouldn't start messing with the front one.

To be honest, there are a lot of access issues, but I wouldn't start chopping bits out to make things easier.

I used tools with flexable angle heads.

allan42 wrote: is this too simplistic??

Welcome Allan.

If you have the level of technical proficiency that allows you to ask that question, I'm sure your could make some bolt on access panels too.

Just because it's not been done, doesn't mean it can't be done. Doesn't mean it won't fail either. But I think the clue is in the title.. 'Firewall'.

TC advises different tools for the job and CJJ advises caution. My question is "Why would you want prolonged access to these places?"

Bear in mind that on a scale of 1 to 10, I can barely change a sparkplug.

PS. If you do do it, don't forget the pics. :lol:

Yeah, point taken. It was just a thought after a very frustrating moment.

And this works OK????????????? sounds like a plan.

If you are changing spark plugs on an MGF you are pretty profficient. Not the easiest car to change the plugs on.

allan42 wrote: Yeah, point taken. It was just a thought after a very frustrating moment.

Don't we all know about frustation Allan. I got my 'epic fail' award for putting the engine cover, soundproof stuffing, carpet, wind deflector and hood back on. Only to discover that I'd left the cover off the sparkplugs. Very character building that was :woohoo: So, you're right about 'getting proficient' too. :lol: :broon: