I've been thinking about cutting holes in the back of the car to get better access to the rear subframe mountings and also get a little bit more storage space. I've seen pictures of this done and the holes fitted with watertight boat hatches (see here http://www.ijohnson.demon.co.uk/myrossa/build2.htm ) which is a very neat (and cheap) solution but I'm wondering if it's a good idea to cut holes there in case it compromises the strength of the car. Does anybody have any thoughts on this? Also, the bodywork at that point is 10" (250mm) wide and I was thinking of using 4" (100mm) covers (it's hard to tell what size is used in the pics) but would I get away with using 6" (150mm) covers instead so that I could make access even better?

Hello
I have had to cut holes in mine because the strength bar from the cage to the subframe mount has seized and the compartment was full of (wet)sound proofing.
I have made 6inch holes and when you see the thickness of the fibreglass
8 to10mm in thickness i dont think there is a problem with strength.
Hope that helps

Thanks for that - I'm just needing a bit of confidence I bet all that wet soundproofing smelt nice The floor in mine was sodden so I removed every single piece in the cabin - rear bulkhead as well - and it still smelled. I then spent hours removing every scrap of glue and remnant of the soundproofing so it's all nice and clean and shiny inside - and it still smells Maybe it will go in time. Anybody else got thoughts/experience on portholes?

haha! I actually did the same thing to mine. I think cutting access holes for rear subframe mounting bolts will do you just fine.


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Keep it flowing!

I did the same and fitted boat type access hatches when I first had the car. It certainly makes removing the rear body section a whole lot easier.

I also acquired an offcut of single ply roofing membrane when out on a site - it makes great gaskets for fitting them!! The car has been stood for a few years and they're the only thing that hasn't leaked

I know this is an old post, but thought that might be useful.