Access Panel Sealing

[2Xtreme]

Hey folks!

I'm considering building an access panel, similar to the one shown, to access the top bellhousing bolts on my Jeep.

Seems simple enough.. cut the hole. Cut and form the cover. Layout bolt holes and install rivnuts.

My question is: What it the best way to keep the 'overlap' from trapping moisture, or even allowing moisture in, since the rivnut 'flange' will create a space between the floor and cover?
Seam sealer? A bead of RTV? A hand-cut gasket?

Thanks in advance!
2X

[Maxx Levell]

Hard to beat regular ol rtv for situations like that. Cheap, easy to apply, and readily available. I'm sure there's a fine line about how much to use in this scenario...you obviously want enough to provide a good barrier, and not so much that you warp the cover/panel when you have to remove it because it's holding too good. My personal experience is that I have absolutely no idea where that line is...I use too much every damn time I use the stuff! If you want...when you're ready to install it...shoot a picture, and I'll tell you how much I would use on it...then you can cut that by half, or 3/4, and you should be just fine :)

[2Xtreme]

Originally Posted by Maxx Levell

.....I'll tell you how much I would use on it...then you can cut that by half, or 3/4, and you should be just fine :)

LOL
Sounds good!

I'm still a ways out from that, but I have a lot of projects rolling around inmy head and thought I should start collecting info.....

Thanks!
2X