‘83 Blazer fuel sending unit access panel/floor structural support ideas?

[BlazerBill]

I cut the hole in the bed of my ‘83 Blazer to access the fuel sending unit. I’d like to hear ideas on an access panel and structural support for the opening. On one of the Blazers on Merricks Garage YT video there was a nice aftermarket looking hinged door installed but not sure where it came from and again I want strong structural support rigidity around the opening that will handle stepping on it and other weight. Thanks!

 

[Ricko1966]

Make a patch just like you took out , but an inch and a half wider and longer,center it over the hole secure it with dzus fasteners or sheet metal screws.I can thinknof better,but since you didn't want to drop the tank to repair the sending unit,I doubt you want drop the tank to weld in a door.

 

[BlazerBill]

Actually, I had cut the hole previously but now the tank is out and would be a good time to incorporate a door and structural support. So, looking for specific ideas on how others went about this.

 

[Ricko1966]

Pics. Where is the piece you cut out?How nice are you really trying to make this? Will there be anything covering it? It would be simple,if you have the original piece, to cut a piece of sheet metal bigger than the hole,with a door in it an inch smaller than the hole. Weld the patch in place from the bottom ,set the original piece in place from the top,secure as you see fit.

 

[89Suburban]

I used 2 matching floor sections, the original one cut from the truck and another larger one from a donor truck. Welded them together for strength and to make a mounting flange.

Suburban Fuel Pump Access Door Mod Pics/Info for Fuel Injected Trucks

I was going through some old pics and stumbled across these and wanted to upload them to the site server so they can retire here and be accessible to others. Measuring from the rear lip of the floor to the back edge of the locking ring on the tank is approx 18".

www.gmsquarebody.com

 

[nvrenuf]

The doors that I've seen used were marine application stuff, most people aren't doing anything to add structural support afterwards.

 

[89Suburban]

Have this mod done to my '07 Tahoe as well.

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