A/C Removal: What did you do with the vent hole?

[crashr]

Hi Folks,

Just wondering for all those that removed there A/C from cars that had the underdash vent what they did to close up the giant hole from the smugglers box to the cabin? The hole is located right behind the shifter console.

Regards,
Dennis

[NoLift911]

Just did this - I posted a question regarding delete plugs from the factory for cars that did not come with A/C (club sport etc)

Did not get any replies so I went the patch panel route - cut panels and tacked them in with the MIG, then sand and smooth and cover with Wurth Body/Seam Sealer

There are alot more holes than just the one in the smugglers box btw...main front bulkhead and trunk have the biggest holes for the condenser fan cooler.

Also need to plug all of the holes in the trunk and all of the screw and mounting points...seem sealer is great for screw holes - bigger ones get hit with the MIG then seam sealer.

[porschenut]

I didn't cover up the smuggler's box hole at all. Never seen the need to.

[TT Oversteer]

I cut a piece of sheet aluminum and bent it to fit the compound curve around the hole. seal with silicone or non-harding weatherstripping putty then fasten with sheet metal screws around the perimeter. Finish off with a shot of satin black. The smuggler's box vents to the outside so you want it weather and moisture tight. Welding is more elegant but also requires more specialized tools and skill. Plus heat in an area close to wires, insulation, carpet, etc.

[crashr]

TT OVersteer: Any chance you could take a picture of both sides at some point and post? This was the type of solution I was thinking of. I would love to see the end result.

[kuehl]

Depending upon the brand of evaporator box that was in the Smuggler's box you may have more than one hole to seal off.