Installing some chassis panels and insulation for the footboxes

This update covers installing insulated body panels.

Related notes live on the Factory Five Cobra build hub.

installing insulated body panels: Heat and noise insulation before rivets

First, I finally reached the point where I can start drilling and riveting some body panels onto the chassis.

Also, I am installing insulation for heat and noise abatement prior to installing the panels.

Because many builders wish they did this earlier, I am planning ahead! Meanwhile, it is nice to start working on interior parts.

Templates for Thermo-Tec scraps

I started with the upper passenger side footbox panel and driver front footbox panel. In other words, these hidden places are great for scraps.

Nobody will see them. Still, they will help keep the footboxes cool as well.

Simply cut the template to fit the panel shape. Then lay that onto the Thermo-Tec and use a sharp razor blade.

I use Thermo-Tec because it is very similar to Dynamat or Noico that I have used previously.

Besides that, the Thermo-Tec was on sale. As a result, it also adds more heat protection.

Breeze radiator fan shroud rivnuts

Next I got to use my TACKLIFE Rivet Nut Tool on my Breeze Radiator Fan Shroud.

Therefore it will be simpler to screw or unscrew the electric fan. Otherwise the nut and bolt method makes things harder.

I simply used my step drill bit to widen the holes a bit. Then I set the four rivnuts into place.

I never tried this tool before. However, it feels very much like a rivet gun.

Likewise, I got it right on the first try. Still, I had to watch a YouTube video on how to change tool sizes.

Ultimately it is a simple task now. Also, these parts are ready for powder coating!

More footbox panels with my son

I have several more panels to work on for the passenger footbox. Meanwhile, progress stays slow but steady!

My son stopped by yesterday. After that, we prepared 3 more panels with insulation.

It is surprising how OCD we both are. For example, we try to align things perfectly, so it takes a lot of time!

Still, it was fun to work together and pop in more rivets!

He brought over his 2016 GT350 and had just installed a new intake and Lund tune. In other words, dang this is a beast!

Likewise, it is awesome that he has Avalanche Gray just like my 2017 Raptor.