Air-tight & removable. Installing drivers. Product suggestions?

[dstmbgh]

How do you install loudspeaker drivers to create an air-tight seal that will last indefinitely and yet still allow the driver to be removed without damage at some later point in time? What products/methods have worked best for you and which would you not use again? The larger, flat profile of a tweeter's flange is of particular concern -- how to provide uniform support so the flange does not distort upon tightening.

[JonMarsh]

I make a built in gasket in the cabinet by smearing a thin film of silicon RTV over the mounting surface, and letting it skin/set up most of the way before seating in a driver to set it flat and smooth.

[Winter]

I have done the following with success, preventing the tearing of the wood baffle flange area when removing the driver at a later date. Of course a quality gasket also alleviates the problem.

1) Flange recess in baffle has been painted, usually with Rustoleum Satin Black
2) Wipe a very, very thin coating of vegetable oil to the flange area on the baffle and let set for 1 minute, then lightly wipe off any visible residual oil
3) Apply silicon sealant and mount driver

I have not attempted an alternative of applying a miniscule amount of talc to the flange area before applying the silicon sealant, but it my be worth a try. Wipe on a small amount with your finger then wipe off with a cloth. Them apply the silicon and the driver.

[AdelaaR]

I used a sort of foam tape meant for sealing windows & doors.
They also sell specific tape like that for audio use ... a sort of rubber tape.
Some drivers have it pre-installed.

[dstmbgh]

I have purchased this Speaker Gasketing Tape 1/8" x 3/8" x 50 ft. Roll (http://www.parts-express.com/pe/psho...umber=260-540), but not used it yet. I have read of some having a problem with it sticking up when they later attempt to remove the driver. Can anyone confirm this?

[dstmbgh]

I make a built in gasket in the cabinet by smearing a thin film of silicon RTV over the mounting surface, and letting it skin/set up most of the way before seating in a driver to set it flat and smooth.

Jon, is there a particular product you prefer to use? I have read of some using a product for automotive gaskets. Any experience with this?

[PMazz]

If you use the gasketing tape and are worried about removal, rub a little paste wax on the back of the driver flange.