Three different questions about a 1980 240 DL

First off I have a 1980 240 DL that I'm doing some work on. I was
pokin' around underneath the drivers side dash and found a small metal
hatch that can be opened and closed about an inch or so. I haven't the
slightest idea what this is. It looked like some kind of ventilation
opening, but I couldn't see any vents on the outside to speak of.

Secondly, I was trying to fix my fasten seat belt signals and I got to
the point where the signals work, but only when I touch the negative
terminal (which connects through the rear center console lightbulb) to
a piece of metal. I thought this was perhaps a grounding issue, but I
couldn't find a place where grounding may have been before. I was also
confused because even when I plugged both seat belts in and had the
bulb grounded it stayed on. I'm not sure what the problem is.

Lastly, this is kind of a general, looking for parts type question. I
am in need of the two panels that go under the dash on the drivers and
passengers side. they attach with clips to cover up wiring and such
and without it my car looks fairly crappy. Any information would be
appreciated.

 

From what I've read, your first issue is a vent that many volvo owners,
in particularly wet climates, seal shut as it could lead to water
getting onto the footwell.

I don't know about the second issue, other than perhaps there is a
short inside of the buckle where it clips - but if touching the center
console light has an effect, you may be onto something there. Does
that bulb work?

Your third issue sounds like a trip to the parts yard.