vettedad61

I need to remove my door panels and wanted advise on the best way, I know the screws are simply but the retainer clips for the door locks and window cranks look impossible to get to?
Rather than trial and error, I hope to do it right the first time!
Thanks -Scott

jimh_1962

I used a couple of small screw drivers to remove the retainers for the locks and window crank on my 62 doors. Also, you could get a window crank removal tool which really did not work that great.

firstgear

you can go to any parts store or NAPA store and get this tool.....here is a link to it at Summit.,...sells for $5

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/WMR-W80646



You need to find the "open" side of the clip and push this tool in to release the clip from the crank or lock. To install, it goes in the other way. Yes a screw driver will also work, but you need to be careful to not tear the door panel.....

62Jeff

Before you try anything, get some cardboard or the lid from a coffee can and cut a slit half-waythrough it. Then slide it along the door panel and then behind the **** you are trying to remove. The idea is to create a protective surface that keeps the door panel from getting damaged by whatever tool you use.

Also, the clip is aligned with the open end pointing in parallel with the length of the ****.

Some use an old rag and saw it back and forth until it catches on the clip and pulls it out.

To re-install, the clip snaps onto the **** first, and then you push the **** onto the serrated shaft until you hear the clip "click" in place.

Frankie the Fink

Note ... you should have a nylon disk behind the window crank as well as a spring around the window crank stub coming out of the door that goes between the door shell and door panel. This is to push the panel outwards to avoid an unsightly gap behind the window handle when everything is installed. Most cars are missing one or more of these and you may want to make sure you install them...

I install those clips with a flat blade screwdriver resting on one of those plastic Bondo spreaders over the sheet metal to keep from scratching it.

vettedad61

Great advice! I might start on it tonight. very helpful and appreciated!

-Scott

Frankie the Fink

Why are you going into the door area ?

There are dangers and mysteries lurking in there that you may need more help on...

jimh_1962

Working on the doors are a big PITA!

vettedad61

lol I want to fix some pourly installed window channel and felt, a messed up pop rivit, install arm rest and mounting holes in door panel, I think I see a screw not tightened, and when who ever installed the door panel didn't hook the top onto the clip torward the top of the door, so there is a gap. you know get it all right... not half-a$$ed!

Frankie the Fink

Window fuzzies have been known to cause dizziness and shortness of breath...consult a professional....

Seriously....this is one of the bigger PITA jobs on the doors...if you are trying to do them 'correctly' of course...meaning with the combo of rivets, clips and screws that were originally used.

jimh_1962

I just completed the doors on my car and I can say it is alot work to get the doors working properly.

I had incorrect window fuzzies and reinstalled the correct ones. It made a big difference! you want to make sure your measurements are correct before remounting the window fuzzies since the little metal end goes over the door post felt runner. Also, I would go the staples route and use the existing holes. It is not bad to do just takes some time. The staples bend back and tighten up fairly easily.

Frankie the Fink

I lucked out and got retro61 (Mike Coletta) to do a bunch of work on my doors...window fuzzies, weatherstripping, busted out hunks of fiberglass...installing and adjusting new chrome posts. A good resource if you get in a bind....