I recently had to do a 4 hour trip in a 41 deg day &, without air conditioning, the cabin heat was nearly unbearable, the 350 Chev obviously has contributed to the problem. Unfortunately the dash has no vents due to a previous owners revised dashboard, so it was out of need that I did this conversion. Still, it may appeal to someone..


Marking out the cut, I removed the lid of this vent, purchased from a caravan supplies place, sometimes called a scupper vent.





Once the hole is cut - I used a 5" grinder with thin disc, use a drill to mark out the interior corners, put a bit of an angle as you need a slightly larger inside hole.



Then mark out the inside.





Most can be cut using the angle grinder. Some with whatever means available..




You need to source some 57mm wide angle, steel or aluminium, I had scrapped an unsafe aluminium ladder & kept some steps that were perfect.



It is then a case of cutting/ forming the sides, then glue
/ sealastic in place. I found Selleys 3 in 1 perfect for this.






There is no need to infill the left ( above) side. Then simply a case of replacing the vent cover & rivitting/ sealing in place.




Doesnt protrude beyond the side rails & should capture some airflow.




I might trim off the inside but it's not looks I'm after.




I'll probably have to take off the flap again( I can drive out the hinge pins) & extend the internal lever so I can kick it open & shut. If I open the rear window - its a ute cab, that should get plenty of airflow. All up this job took 6 hours, but it's my hobby, I love metalwork.. Now to do the passenger side !!