Installing rubber grommets in firewall?

[Chet Zerlin]

I'm trying to replace the disintegrating rubber grommets that are (were?) used to seal the many holes where various wires went through the firewall of my BN6 to help insulate my interior from engine heat.

Made a small cut with a razor blade to get them over the existing wires but can't seem get them mounted into the holes.

Is there an easier way to do this other than just to keep pushing and bending and shoving?

Thanks!
Chet

 

[John Turney]

An evaporating detergent solution, like 409 or Windex, helps.

 

[steveg]

An evaporating detergent solution, like 409 or Windex, helps.

Agree re windex. I like a small dull, rounded, flat-blade screwdriver. If you've cut it, start with one end and push it into the hole, pushing the cut end around the periphery of the hole.

The grommets come in a lot of sizes. I like to measure the hole with calipers and use that to check the ID of the grommet to make sure it's correct.

 

[Deleted member 21878]

2nd on the dull screw driver. i used one and just worked around the edge. it is amazing, you think it won't fit and then when it is in, it is fine. of course push the away part in first and work towards you.

some items you may be able to unhook and slide the grommet over so you do not have to cut. may be eaiser to handle.

i found on the new grommets there was still a small gap around the cable or whatever. i used some rope caulk, which does not harden, on the inside squeezed to the cable/wires up to the grommet so there was no light coming thru. if your grommets look ok, you might even be able to do this without putting new ones in. the caulk does not show and it stays in place.

 

[CaptRandy]

Windex plus dental tool also use wooden popsicle sticks.

 

[steveg]

 

[Chet Zerlin]

Thanks All!

Chet