2 firewall questions, cut a rug Options

[23e Heure]

My 6 conversion is going to the workshop for a GT styling makeover this winter.

I'll probably have a few dummies questions for the forum brain to help with, and in the meantime I'll start at the firewall.:

1)
I want to cut an inspection hatch in the firewall to get to be able to do the timing etc. with motor in place.
- Who has some photos shots of neat solutions for this.
- And any general advice on doing this.

2)
I assume stock backpad and cutting an inspection hatch do not mix. So I will carpet the firewall.
- Am I best buying a ready shaped / cut firewall carpet? Or is this relatively easy for a trimmer to do without a pattern?
(I am in UK and trying to avoid buying too much stuff from US due to shipping and taxes)
- If best to buy 'ready made', who makes the best one?
(I found a few on US eBay, no idea if there is a better source...)

- Sound deadening while I am in there?
(I plan on removing the sound pad from the engine side).

Thanks all!