Busted Shift Linkage On Chumpcar - Add access panel in center tunnel for access?

[vintage914racer]

Not a big poster on these boards, but I've used the search function for a lot of valuable information. A couple years ago me and some buddies built a 1989 325i into a chumpcar (gratuitous pic below) and while we have got most of the gremlins out, we recently busted the shift linkage. Obviously we can repair it easily by dropping the tranny, but in the interest of quick trackside repairs I'm wondering if it would be possible to cut an access panel inside the car to ease the future process?

I am open to welding in reinforcements if necessary and my biggest question would be where to cut inside the car to access the important linkage components?

[110stx]

You would hardly be the first to go this route.

Make the hole as small as practical, and position it exactly where you need it, naturally.

Make a cover panel and attach it with screws and those clip-on "nuts" BMW uses on undertray attachments, dash panels, the ecu plastic cover, etc.

d.hitchcock

[vintage914racer]

Do you know where exactly I should cut the panel in relation to the existing hole where the shift lever comes through?

[jlevie]

It is not necessary to remove the transmission to get the shifter out. You will need to remove the bolts that hold the transmission cross member to the body and allow the rear of the transmission to droop.

[KenC]

Yeah you only need to droop the back.

You could cut a good chunk out of the top of the tunnel if you wanted to. The linkage doesn't mount to it. Just duct tape some plastic over it if it rains.