Just a couple of lessons I've learned over the years ...

1) It's easier to work through a bigger hole then a too small hole

2) It's just as easy to repair a larger hole then a smaller hole cut for access.

3) Cut a access hole like you do when carving a "pumpkin" .... at a angle. I set my Bosch jig saw to a angle of 15degrees.

4) I mask off the area to be cut out w/ masking tape and draw lay-out lines to follow while cutting. This prevents chips and sloppy wiggly cuts. Use a new sharp blade!!!!

5) I drill two holes at opposite corners diagnally from each other just big enough for the jig saw's blade to fit into ...

6) Check w/ the builder BEFORE cutting and obtain any advise you can ...


From the pics' I think you will need two access holes ... one forward of the trunk and one aft as you need to be able to work on both sides of the trunk .....

Harry