[Redtape]

I just got my Honda bed mat for my Pioneer 1000. Very high quality, fits like a glove, but they didn't make cut-outs for the 4 tie down anchors. The mat is rubber like material and over 1/4 inch thick, and I need to figure out how to either drill holes about 1 1/2 inch diameter or cut slots in order to access the tie down anchor that are located near each corner of the bed. Naturally being a new machine, I'm trying to make it look neat and professional.

Any of you already done the task or have an idea how to best accomplish it?

I am very surprised that Honda does not make access to the anchors since it's a custom mat.

Thanks for any responses.

P.S. I just got my tilt aluminum trailer a few days ago, and I'll attempt to take some pictures when I have it load-up and ready to go. I must say that it is a very large looking machine when you put it in a garage - three car garages aren't enough anymore. Too many toys and cars I guess. LOL

 

[mrbb]

I say use a dremel and the use silicone (or maybe some black RTV)to seal it back up to make it look nice and clean like(unless you plan to remove often)
you can also maybe try laying it in bed, and using a heat gun and just pressing on it to mark the spot(or force things on that way?

be a lot easier maybe if the tie downs were bolted on and could just drill liner and remove them and then put back on !
they don't always plan a head I guess! LOL

 

[XplicitRacing6]

To make the holes you can just use a hole saw and a drill... should eat through that mat like butter

 

[Redtape]

I think I will try a hole saw, it should provide a clean cut if it's sharp. Now I just have to figure out the best way to place them. The mat is very heavy duty, and it is fitted such that it won't fall out even when the box is being dumped - really impressive quality. But that's why I bought Honda. Now I just need to quit messing with it and take it out for a good ride. LOL

Just as an off the wall comment: I was concerned about the fabric doors getting damaged when towing (hard roof and back with glass windshield). Anyway I bought a 20' length of 1/2" bungee cord to strap around the top of the cab which will catch the top of the doors, and I think this will resolve this problem. I got the bungee cord on-line for about $18 which isn't bad, and it's very heavy duty.

I'm getting cabin fever waiting for it to freeze hard enough for some of the trails to open.

 

[mrbb]

I said dremel, due to I thought you said holes were not round, but if round is all you need ai agree a hole saw is what you want to use, and if possibl;e place of wood under it to dig into and allow a cleaner cut for you!

 

[Redtape]

I will use a piece of wood underneath and secure it before drilling. Thanks for the input. I have seen a picture where one person had used a box cutter to cut a rectangular access, but I think the whole saw will be a little better.

 

[mrbb]

I have seen folks use box knives and such and heated the blades up pretty good first and cut thru hard plastic and rubber like a hot knife thru butter
also doesn't hurt to heat rubber up a little too! when cutting with a knife!

 

[Redtape]

I think I will try a hole saw, it should provide a clean cut if it's sharp. Now I just have to figure out the best way to place them. The mat is very heavy duty, and it is fitted such that it won't fall out even when the box is being dumped - really impressive quality. But that's why I bought Honda. Now I just need to quit messing with it and take it out for a good ride. LOL

Just as an off the wall comment: I was concerned about the fabric doors getting damaged when towing (hard roof and back with glass windshield). Anyway I bought a 20' length of 1/2" bungee cord to strap around the top of the cab which will catch the top of the doors, and I think this will resolve this problem. I got the bungee cord on-line for about $18 which isn't bad, and it's very heavy duty.

I'm getting cabin fever waiting for it to freeze hard enough for some of the trails to open.

Hole saw worked great. Clean, easy, and neat.