1931 shutoff grommet install

J

John Kuhnast

Well-known member
Any trick to installing the rubber grommet in the fire wall before installing the under hood shutoff valve.Its putting up a good fight and so far its winning.
 
hmm ive never installed one but is it too stiff or is it too small/big?

If its stiff an old trick is to throw it in very hot almost boiling water for a bit to soften the rubber then quickly install it.
 
I've done this twice, and it's not a piece of cake by any means. As SeaSlugs suggests, soften the rubber a bit, then in addition, I've used some assembly lube to get things going a bit easier.

Once you finally get it in there, you will perceive a giant smile on your face for having conquered the beast!
 
Vaseline or WD-40 is a big help with tight rubber grommets. I push one side into the edge of the metal, then use a round end butter knife to keep pealing the rubber inward all the way around. Sometimes I can get by just using my fingers, but often need the butter knife or a similar tool.
 
I use spray silicone for most things dealing with rubber.As mentioned, WD-40 if I'm out, but one can of silicone will last a long time.Good Luck
 
I was ready to change out mine, which only has a few small cracks in it. After reading this, I think I will just take car of the cosmetics and leave it as is. If the car is only a driver, it is sometimes better to leave well enough alone
 
When installing rubber around many types of glass (modern windshields etc) , I wrap a small rope in the groove of the grommet, grease it up, and use the rope to pull the grommet in place. Pull the rope out to the inside as you press on the grommet. I have used this method on the grommet and it works easy.
 
I just put on new hood bumpers and didint want to use new rivits so I ground an old junk screw driver shoe horn shape and used soap
 
I heated mine in boiling water, then used some grease for lube, Worked it right in place. GOOD LUCK
 
Since they were installed in the firewall before the tank was fitted, I can imagine it is very difficult to replace one without removing the tank.
 
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