Forum Discussion

coolmom42's avatar
coolmom42
Explorer II
Dec 01, 2020

easier panel removal for water pump access--how to do it?

Access to the water pump is via a panel at floor level of the rear storage compartment of my 2014 Coachmen 21QB motor home. The panel is about 6 inches tall and about 20 inches long. It's secured by 4 of the ubiquitous #2 square head screws. It's also recessed about 2 inches behind the panel above it.

The screws are difficult to reach, the holes are chewed up, and I will likely winterize 3-4 times a year since I travel in the winter.

What's a decent alternative fastener that I could use to replace the screws?

I'm toying with the idea of some small ceramic magnets glued in strategic places, so the panel could be popped off quickly. Any other suggestions?

Plan A was to add an access port like this one,, but the shape of the panel makes that not feasible.

10 Replies

  • air, blow the lines out, dump the hot water heater, done. Un winterizing add water.
  • You might want to consider adding a drawer handle too. Much easier to remove that way.
  • 3M dual lock. 3 one inch squares along the top and two on the bottom.
  • I like the ball and socket but the panel is probably only 1/8" interior board and not thick to mount the male end of the pair.

    I would probably go with velcro squares, and since the panel is 20" long, I would use 6, one at each corner and 2 midway on the long sides.
  • wnjj's avatar
    wnjj
    Explorer II
    Ball and socket like speaker grille cloths use for a professional look, provided the panel can be make thick enough with trim boards.

    Otherwise Velcro is simplest.