Kick panels

[Zaffer]

I have an ‘82 and when I bought the car, the front kick panels were not installed as the PO had removed them and modified them for speakers. My question is: is there supposed to be plastic installed on the body here, because when I drive, especially in cold weather, there is quite a bit of airflow through this region.

Thanks!

[RRoller123]

More likely that the air flap is open under the cowl, it is controlled by the levers in the center console between the seats.

[Zaffer]

It’s definitely coming from the kick panel area. I don’t have the kick panels installed currently because I just want to be sure that there is nothing between the kick panel and body. If I put my hand at the kick panel area, the airflow is coming from there, and yes, the fender liners are installed.

I’ll try to post a pic this evening if what I’m talking about.

Thanks!

[spidernut]

There was a thick insulated panel with a black surface. It is the same as the insulation on the console area and that along the firewall.

On some Fiat Spiders, you'll find if you remove the front fender well liner that the speaker area is open to the fender well. Water and debris can splash into the speaker compartment. Many other years, like my 79, are sealed off. I don't know if that was from improper assembly at the factory, if it was designed that way, if it was from poor body repairs or if it was for some other reason.

If you have the open type (like I had on one of my EFI Spiders), I got a clear plastic pot liner from Home Depot's garden department that fit into the opening. I used a silicone glue to adhere it to the opening sealing off the area so my speakers would not be damaged from the water/moisture.

[Zaffer]

Thanks, this is the info I was looking for! I figured there was supposed to be something there to keep water out. I was thinking of using a 6-mil black plastic. I am looking to install speakers there, whenever I get around to installing the radio.

[PhillySpider]

I don't have a fender liner on the front driver side...and the fender well is open. If you get down on one knee and look down the driver side you can see the back of the speaker sticking out! Been meaning to address this, but vendors never seem to have the liner in stock and I don't drive in the rain.

[redcars]

On the FI models you can get speaker covers for marine use and put in there. They will seal and weather proof it.

[ORFORD2004]

https://www.ebay.com/itm/XTC-5-5-25-Inc ... SwBahVUhsa