Custom panels - access doors (1 Viewer)

[Spook50]

So I'm building custom rear cargo panels, but I'm at a loss for retaining access to the rear washer bag/reservoir. The panels I'll be using (thin plywood) are too thick to retain the stock twist-on cover, so I'm looking at a door that'll swing out and down (or, if I can find spring loaded hinges that'll allow it, out and up) and latch closed. I don't mind if the latch is visible on the outside, but I'd like to have the hinge(s) on the inside of the panel so they're concealed when the door is closed.

Any ideas or recommendations?

 

[AussieCruiser62]

How about using a marine access hatch?
Water/dust proof, lightweight, low profile mounting etc

 

[TLC Norway]

Or using a router on the back, thinking down the material enough to use the stock lid?

 

[OSS]

How many times have you used the rear washer? Or rear wiper? Does the rubber wiper even work?

 

[Spook50]

How many times have you used the rear washer? Or rear wiper? Does the rubber wiper even work?

Frequently on both, actually

@AussieCruiser62 that's perfect! Not what I was originally thinking to do, but I like that idea much better. Has a much more "updated stock" appearance.

 

[Code Red]

I attached my plywood panel with rivnuts and hex bolts. I don't use the old washer bag, but getting into the panel would be a 1-2 minute job.

 

[Spook50]

I attached my plywood panel with rivnuts and hex bolts. I don't use the old washer bag, but getting into the panel would be a 1-2 minute job.

Yeah I still use the rear washer and wiper quite a bit where I'm at, so definitely want to retain access to the bag. I'm doing the rivnut thing as well, using M6 inserts and screws, since the inserts only need a 10mm hole that I can easily make with a step drill, and black oxide screws with torx heads for a more professional look, but keeps it metric.

 

[AdventureToolCompany]

I’d second the marine door covers. A number of places on line sell them in all sorts of shapes and sizes. Good luck!

 

[88TXCruiser]

Paul, that is a really nice panel - is it Kydex? How did you form it around the wire conduit and tool "kick-out"? Heat gun?
-Sammy

 

[AdventureToolCompany]

Paul, that is a really nice panel - is it Kydex? How did you form it around the wire conduit and tool "kick-out"? Heat gun?
-Sammy

Its 1/8“ ABS plastic from a local plastic supplier. I believe it’s different from kydex. Came in 4x8 sheets and I made door panels as well. Very easy to mold the wire loom and jack mount with a heat gun. Good luck!

 

[88TXCruiser]

Thanks for the info. The panels on mine aren't in very good shape. I was thinking diamondplate for replacement but that is a nice clean look and the ABS will be much easier to work with.