GM firewall pad rubber plug installation

[67 Nova Boy]

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

[Unreal]

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.

[67 Nova Boy]

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

Dave
67 Nova Boy

[L78steve]

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

[Kurt S]

IIRC, they used soap in the plant.

[L78 Fred]

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

[BLACKLS5]

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.

[67 Nova Boy]

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

[bluel78]

Any tips to save the originals?

[NorCam]

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.