GM firewall pad rubber plug installation
 

Any tips on how to install the rubber firewall pad plugs that hold it in-place?

Repo pad with the better rubber, instead of the plastic plugs...having a hard time getting

them in.

Dave
67 Nova Boy

I used a rat tail file a little smaller as the hole in the plug, and pushed it through the firewall. It stretches rubber, and reduces its diameter. Had to push pretty hard, as I recall. I'm thinking I used a little silicone spray on the plug to make it slide easier.

Thanks for the tip...will go at again tomorrow.

Dave
67 Nova Boy

Something with a blunt end so not to push through the rubber.
The lube suggestion is a good idea.

IIRC, they used soap in the plant.

Dave,
I have a tool for it, you are welcome to borrow it
For anyone in construction it is nothing more than a steel drop in anchor set tool
like a drift punch with a step in it

I rounded off a Phillips head screwdriver and welded a washer on it the same depth as the bottom of the retainer so washer is pushing on the head and the blunt end of the screwdriver is pushing on the point of the retainer at the same time. I'm talking about the hard plastic retainers but I would think that it would work on rubber also.

Some really creative solutions for these pesky little plugs! Will give them a try today...

One of those hold ups that must be done...

Thanks all for the tips!

Dave
67 Nova Boy

Any tips to save the originals?

Often easier to install a couple bolts up top to hold the pad straight for the first couple plugs to go in Dave. Dawn dish soap serves as a great lube to get then in.

You guys are making this easier then I am making it...thanks for all the tips

Dave
67 Nova Boy

Ok...so after breaking the tip off one or two with blunt objects I resulted in putting two in a cup of boiling water to soften them up for few minutes and then put Vaseline on the end and it popped right in! Trick was the boiling water to soften.

Pad is in and now for the heater box...

Dave
67 Nova boy

I know they used soap at the factory, but virtually all soap has some corrosive properties. Vaseline or silicone are much better choices. And you have to watch silicone. Some of the cheaper brands will eat rubber. Test it by spraying it on a styrofoam cup. You will immediately know if it is corrosive to rubber and plastic.