Forward trunk panel removal?

[Power Surge]

Maybe my brain is not functioning at 100% today, but how the heck do you remove the forward most trunk panel? No matter how I bend it or manipulate it, I just can't seem to get it to clear all the chassis tubes to remove it.

[Papa]

There is a description of how to "S" the panel to get it in and out in the manual. It is difficult, but doable at the expense of the powder coat on the roll bars.

[PNWTim]

It also takes more muscle than you think but you won't hurt it. I put a layer of painters tape and two layers of duct tape and it still sawed through a bit of it and took PC like Dave indicated. I made a point of only removing and installing twice while drilling. It will be one of the last pieces I install after go karting.

[Papa]

From the manual on how to install the panel. Removal is the opposite:

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=223571&d=1767461012

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=223570&d=1767461012

[Power Surge]

Thanks guys! I didn't see that in the manual because I'm looking at the section where it has you fit the rear cockpit panel and they already have that upper trunk panel removed in that picture.

[8secDuster]

The manual makes it look easy. Its a PITA!
Get a can of SEM Trim Paint, You'll need it.
It matches almost perfectly.

223581

[burchfieldb]

I plan on using a shear to cut it in half and then use a small bridge panel underneath between the two.

[8secDuster]

I plan on using a shear to cut it in half and then use a small bridge panel underneath between the two.

Good plan Brent.
It's impossible to get that panel in or out without scratching the $&*# out of something.

[burchfieldb]

Good plan Brent.
It's impossible to get that panel in or out without scratching the $&*# out of something.

Yeah, i have had it in and out a couple of times and am tired of scratching the powdercoat.

[flight_83]

I think that piece should come in 2 pieces. if I were to do it over id cut it down the middle.

[rickshank]

Planning on doing that on mine, just pulled after test fitting and moving to the wiring. The rear cockpit panel is in place and it makes it worse. A few minutes with the shear and I’ll solve it.