My version of a trap door for the fuel pump. Don't mind the horrible cutting with the tin snips where the original hole was cut by the Previous owner. It's still a work in progress but this is what I came up with so far. The sheet metal was a little flimsy so I still have to make the edges more ridged so it seals tighter. Let me know what you think!

 

one of the best one's i've seen so far, nice job.

 

I'm guessing that the pump & lines still can't be removed, despite the big whole, because of the way it is all designed.

 

That looks really good. Best I've seen by far

 

I hate to admit it but sadly yes I would assume you would still have to take the tank straps off and lower the tank a little to wiggle it out. I replaced my pump once and I didn't even bother with the cutout because I wanted to do a thorough cleaning an painting as well as some suspension upgrades so everything came out. I think later down the road I'll cut the lines and replace a small section right after the bend in the lines with flex hose so it could be an actual functioning door. I have no idea what the previous owner was thinking when he cut that section out. Lol

 

I think you can actually get the pump out- the fact that he cut so far toward the front of the car means you may be able to wiggle the hard lines over the front of the tank enough to get the pump out. My PO SPLIT along the edge of the hump toward the drivers rear shock(!!!!). I have a lot of welding in my future!

 

I will never understand why people cut into these cars like that.

 

Two things... WOW thats a big hole. I agree getting the pump out might be a bit of a wiggle situation. But if it works it works.

Second...because its cut down into the seat back area some, thats a nice solution for pulling it down tight. Probably seals fairly well.

To make the edges and entire panel more rigid, you have a couple choices. You could fold the edges over like 1/2"...if you have the room. You could also add some small angle along the bottom side with some tack welds..if you can weld. OR you could even pop rivet something along the bottom in an X shape or something to give it some strength. Then when it pulls down tight, you'll get a better seal.

J.