TM 9-4120-360-14
4.10. Lower Panel (See figure 4-5).
a. Description. The lower panel encloses and seals the lower front area of the air conditioner. It contains a
depressed cutout opening to provide access to the control panel. The opening is sealed with an RFI-ground gasket.
b. Removal. Remove the lower panel by unscrewing two panel fastener screws in the upperedge. and pulling the
panel outward and upward.
c. Disassembly. The lower panel assembly consists of the metal panel itself, strips of wire-mesh-covered foam
rubber gasket material, a refrigeration flow diagram information plate riveted to the inner surface over a layer of foam
insulation, a strip of gasket material along the bottom edge. and two panel fastener screws in the top edge. Disassemble as
follows, but only to the extent necessary to effect repairs.
Acetone and methyl-ethyl ketone (MEK) are flammable, and their vapors can be explosive. Repeated
or prolonged skin contact or inhalation of vapor can be toxic. Use in a well ventilated area, wear
gloves, and keep away from sparks or flame.
(1) Remove gasket material by inserting a putty knife or similar blade between the gasket and the metal.
Soften and remove adhesive residue with acetone or MEK and a stiff brush.
(2) Drill out rivets, and remove information plate.
(3) Remove retaining washers from panel fastener screws by cutting and bending, or support the face of the
panel firmly with the head of the panel fastener screw over a hole at least as deep as the screw is long, and driving the
screw out from the inner surface.
Dry cleaning solvent (Fed. Spec PD-680) used to clean parts is potentially dangerous to personnel and
property. Do not use near open flame or excessive heat. Flash point of solvent is 100F to 138F (38C
to 59C).
d. Cleaning. Clean the lower panel with a cloth dampened in dry cleaning solvent (Fed Spec PD-680).
e. inspection. Inspect the panel for dents, gouges, cuts or openings through which air could enter the casing.
Inspect gaskets for looseness or missing sections.
f. Repair. Repair the lower panel, using conventional sheet metal repair methods, as required, if damage does
not exceed minor dents or perforations. Replace the panel if major damage exists.
g. Assembly. Assemble the lower panel as directed in the following steps:
(1) Insert panel fastener screws through the holes in the upper edge of the panel, from the outside. Place
retaining washers over the threaded portions of the screws from inside the panel. Lay the panel on a firm, flat surface, and
stake the ID of the retaining washers flat around the shanks of the screws.
(2) Install the information plate on the inside of the lower panel, using blind rivets through the matching
holes.
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