Tool to cut the press board behind the TV?

[mpking]

I have a2017 2800BH. This is one of the models where there is a huge storage compartment behind the TV. Do large that even 6'3" me can't teach the back of it.

I want to do the mod I've seen here where people cut out a square behind the TV to allow access, yet still be hidden.

What tool did you use to cut the material?
Did you finish the edge with anything to keep it nice?

[Country Campers]

I have not done that mod but have cut the material. I have used both a utility knife and a saber saw.

Brian

[mpking]

I have not done that mod but have cut the material. I have used both a utility knife and a saber saw.

Brian

Which came out better?

Did you line the edge?

[Country Campers]

Which came out better?

Did you line the edge?

Either one I used painters tape on the back side, hard to see pencil on that material. The utility knife worked better and left a cleaner edge. Just be careful not to overcut at the corners. You can also use a circular saw if you have one and then trim the corners, I did that once as well. Lots of ways to cut the material just be careful though as the finish scratches easy.

Brian

[TucsonJim]

I would use an oscillating saw for a cut like you mention. Something similar to this:


https://www.amazon.com/Hammerhead-2-...08&sr=8-5&th=1

[Cate&Rob]

The best edge finish would be accomplished with a small “trim” router following a template with a bushing bit. I would use a jig saw to cut to within 1/4” of the final opening. Then clamp a plywood template in place and follow the template with the router to remove the last 1/4” +/- of the rough cut. The plywood covers the surrounding surface, protecting it from any slips or tool marks.

Rob

[Jlawles2]

When I did the lights behind the TV, I cut the hole for the switch with a utility knife. The paneling they use is 3 ply 1/8" or possibly 4mm (this is extremely generous). I cut away from the corners so to avoid the over cut.

The think I liked the best about the utility knife vs any type of saw or routing was dust control. Definitely use painters tape to help protect the edges from fraying during the cuts and break out.

[mpking]

Have any of you put something on the cut edge to protect it?
Something like this?
https://amzn.to/3qiYvmI

[Jlawles2]

Every hole I cut was either being used by something covering it or had something going over it to cover it completely. I can see where the edging would work well, you will probably need to cut the hole first, then look for something what will fit.

On the first TT, I used a section of door edging to cover the bottom of the fiberglass cap where the wiring went in as it was chaffing the wires and actually rubbed through to the conductor on one. The cap is relatively thin being somewhere in the thickness of the paneling used in campers. I will say it took quite a bit to get the door edging in place.

[Cate&Rob]

A router cut opening will be smooth enough that you can "finish" the edge with a Sharpie pen . . . unless you need a trim ring to frame the opening or support a door or cover.

Rob

[Jlawles2]

Cate&Rob Rob, I think he is worried about pulling the layer on the inside or outside when reaching through.

Also, the routed opening will expose end grain on 2 sides of the opening of the core material. This core material from what I have seen is not the tightest grained material and most likely will not leave a smooth edge. At any rate, the trim proposed will at least provide Mike a bit of relief on the skin when reaching through.