I have a significant water leak that appears to be running down the inside of the firewall. (Thank goodness for drain holes!) I'm fairly sure it's related to the recent addition of the louvered hood panel, but it's not the panel itself that's the problem. When I had my hood painted, I think the body shop removed the hood and cowl. Why the cowl, I have no idea. I just noticed that the rubber grommet that runs the width of the engine compartment between the cowl and hood has been pinched and isn't correctly installed -- thanks to the carelessness of the body shop. A couple of questions.....
First, it seems obvious, but I'd like to know if that could indeed be the problem? That is, could water running down between the hood and cowl make its way into the passenger compartment? If yes, then I'm onto to something.
Second, while I'm reinstalling this rubber piece, is there any value to running some caulk (silicone?) somewhere just to give an insurance policy against leaks? If so, best product to use? Thanks all! Chief