Added a rear access panel to the 78
I have put off working on the 78 for far too long. Today, I decided to put in the rear access panel. Here are some pictures.
I really hated to cut into the really well preserved rear trunk, but I figure I will need the access once I start reinstalling the engine.
I drilled some various sized round holes in the corners of the raised areas in the existing panel.
Next I used my new Harbor Freight metal shear (it has a freakin' laser beam) to start cutting from hole to hole. My goal was to preserve as much of that raised lip as possible in hopes that it would help with long term stability of the remaining metal.
Large opening on right side completed.
Smaller opening on left completed.
After I completed both openings I went back with a die grinder and smoothed the edges of the openings so I wouldn't cut myself in the future. I also rounded a couple of cuts in the corners to hopefully avoid any cracking down the road.
Once I get the 10 holes drilled (hopefully tomorrow) I will be able to install the access panel I got from Tom (AngleT).
My next project is to create hard line for the FI fuel return and get it installed.