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Rear Deck From Scratch - How To

By Jason Ludwig Rodz
Classic Bmw Custom Rear Deck Oringal Deck Removed
The original rear deck panel... 
   
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Classic Bmw Custom Rear Deck Oringal Deck Removed
The original rear deck panel on this Bimmer had already been removed. That's good news for us as it cuts down on demolition time. As you can see, the metal tray that separates the cabin from the trunk allows plenty of depth for a set of coaxials.
Classic Bmw Custom Rear Deck Cutting Off The Headrest Mounts
Before continuing, we have... 
   
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Classic Bmw Custom Rear Deck Cutting Off The Headrest Mounts
Before continuing, we have to unbolt and remove the seats. Here we got rid of the headrests (who needs 'em?), which means getting busy with an airsaw. The metal brackets are sawed off on both sides.
Classic Bmw Custom Rear Deck Cardboard Template
With the area clear, we can... 
   
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Classic Bmw Custom Rear Deck Cardboard Template
With the area clear, we can make a cardboard template for the base.
Classic Bmw Custom Rear Deck Cutting Out The Base
Using the cardboard template,... 
   
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Classic Bmw Custom Rear Deck Cutting Out The Base
Using the cardboard template, we cut out the base from 51/48" MDF. Check for fit back in the vehicle.
Classic Bmw Custom Rear Deck Sanding The Base
Sand the edges of the MDF... 
   
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Classic Bmw Custom Rear Deck Sanding The Base
Sand the edges of the MDF before routing it to get rid of imperfections and ensure a smooth routing job. Also, knocking down the big stuff with 50-grit now cuts down on sanding later, when it will be more difficult to sand the beveled edge.
Classic Bmw Custom Rear Deck Routing The Edges
For the sake of good looks,... 
   
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Classic Bmw Custom Rear Deck Routing The Edges
For the sake of good looks, we'll route a 45-degree bevel all around the edges of the piece.
Classic Bmw Custom Rear Deck Cutting The Mounting Rings
Next, cut the mounting rings... 
   
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Classic Bmw Custom Rear Deck Cutting The Mounting Rings
Next, cut the mounting rings for the speakers from a piece of 31/44" MDF.
Classic Bmw Custom Rear Deck Routing The Edges
Router the edges to ensure... 
   
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Classic Bmw Custom Rear Deck Routing The Edges
Router the edges to ensure they're the same and finish nicely. Create plates to match out of 11/42" MDF (not pictured). Use these to protect the rings later when coating the rear deck with resin.
Classic Bmw Custom Rear Deck Centering The Two Rings
Marking guidelines of the... 
   
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Classic Bmw Custom Rear Deck Centering The Two Rings
Marking guidelines of the centerpoints on the MDF base makes it easier to center the two rings where we want them.
Classic Bmw Custom Rear Deck Attaching Mounting Rings To The Base
I like to tilt speakers at... 
   
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Classic Bmw Custom Rear Deck Attaching Mounting Rings To The Base
I like to tilt speakers at a 30-degree angle < less isn't enough and 45 degrees is too much. To get this angle, cut stilts from MDF with the tops sliced at a 30-degree angle. Attach them to the base and rings first with wood glue before nailing them down.
Classic Bmw Custom Rear Deck Sanding The Bevels
Sand the sharp edges of the... 
   
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Classic Bmw Custom Rear Deck Sanding The Bevels
Sand the sharp edges of the bevel all around to soften the shape.
Classic Bmw Custom Rear Deck Filling The Gap
Notice that there's a gap... 
   
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Classic Bmw Custom Rear Deck Filling The Gap
Notice that there's a gap in between the rear deck and the seat. Fill this in with another piece of MDF. Again, grab some cardboard and create a template of the area before cutting out the MDF.

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