Someone sent me an email about cutting the grills, so I'm going to post my reply to his question here so everyone with the same problem can get the info.
Quote:
I installed the same front speakers in my Elise... I however could not get the grilles to fit since the windshield blocks it.
What did you use to cut the grilles? I tried a scissors and I tried a plyers with a snip section.
thanx
Jason
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Hi Jason,
You need the right tool. I have a three piece set of Craftsman Snip Set, Sears item #00942720000 Mfr. model #4272. They come in right hand cut, left hand cut and straight cut. I used the red handled snip, which is the left hand cut. The set of three runs $29.99, or you can just buy the one snip for $14.99.
With the speaker cover in my left hand and have the speaker grill facing the ceiling, I cut clock wise with my right hand. The snips need to be facing up so they are making a left hand cut. It sounds hard, but once you do it and see it in person, it's simple.
You have to make sure you cut even all around. If you don't have any experience with snips, use a piece of masking tape and mark the cut line. Start with a 1/8" cut and see if they will fit, then cut a little more if needed. Always cut as little as possible so you have less chance of messing up the covers. You can get some practice by only cutting a 1/16" first, then go for more once you are comfortable with how to make clean, straight cuts.
I have built several Factory Five Cobra's, which use aluminum panels, so I have more experience with snips than most. So I didn't think twice about cutting off 1/8" of the grill. But I did a small cut all around, then had to go a little more. It took me 2 minutes per grill, so this is not rocket science. Just go slow and make sure you cut a straight line all around.
The key to making a clean cut is make longer cuts, instead of a bunch of little cuts. As an example, if your snips have 3" cutting blades, you should make one 3" cut. Not six 1/2" cuts. Then when you are done with your cutting, make sure the edges are smooth. Just use your fingers to flatten any high spots.
Good luck!
- Bill
(edited to include images in Gallery)