My 1940 pontiac has an access panel on the floorboard for the brake master cylinder. It seems to be corroded or frozen in place. Any ideas on how to remove it without ruining it? I can't find any screws or fasteners holding it in place.
Vib's make rust move,so hammering lite taps,clears thing up a little,then vac.. If not hit harder!, if it brake apart,so what,it was going to any way. Make a new cover if needed,should all hide under rug anyway. { or rubber floor mat
if there are no fasteners, perhaps it's made of steel, and surrounded by rubber? which has hardened over the years? If you provide a picture or two, we might be able to better help you. but my experience with old Chevys makes me think you just need to pry it out. Don't be surprised if it breaks.
IIRC of the Pontiacs in 40, the access cover has a clip on the front and just lifts up. Corrosion has most likely "welded" it in place and as Jim says it will probably break. Buick has their master cylinder more forward so it could be reached from under the hood.
Thanks for the replies. I'll try the "gentle" tapping and see what happens. If no luck I'll post a pic. I'd rather keep the cover if possible. Don't really want to break it if i can help it
Pour a cup of rust eater stuff on it. Let it sit overnight. Put down a little chunk of 2x4 on top (to prevent soaking into this next part) then use a DA or other vibrating tool to jar things. Go inside and research it's replacement. Do the vibe thing again later. None of this is difficult or harmful.
Id say to run a propane torch around all the edges lightly to get a little heat, then give it some taps with hammer to help aid in things moving. You will be amazed how a little heat and tap tap and maybe throw some penetrating oil at it will free things up fast.
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