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Hey guys , I have a couple of door panels to install on my 80 in the near future. I noticed in one of the suppliers catalogues they rate it as a #2 or just above basic skills and tools needed for the install. To me it looks like alot more of a job than basic. Any advise to pass on from those that have travelled this road already ? Thanx Brent
I have not done a set of 78 on door panels in a while. But when I had my 78 I remember taking them off to get to the power windows. It was not hard at all. i seem to remember the arm rest having a couple of bolts in it to hold down the panel. After the bolts and screws were removed it lifted off of the track/panel at the top.
From: Kansas City, MO ...I'd like to go fishing and catch a fishstick. That'd be convenient. - Mitch Hedberg
I put new door panels on my '80 earlier this year. Not a hard thing to do at all. I didn't have the originals to use as templates to cut the holes though. That made it a little difficult. AVette4me was nice enough to send me picks and highlight where all the screws went. That was they only thing that saved me from putting screws in the wrong places. If you have the originals, you won't have any problems since you will have templates.
Just remember, make small cuts in the vinyl. It is easy to make the holes a little larger if needed. If you cut too much you will have to live with it or buy new panels. And use sharp razor blades.
Well I am lucky enough to have the old door panels as reference. I am getting excited because the snow is almost gone and I am at the last stage being interior. Put the dash assembly in the car yesterday and it was a snap. I think it was harder getting out than putting back in. Brent
It's a basic job. You should be able to do it. Just take your time.
Les
I replaced the panels on my 76. The only real problem was lining up the screw holes, especially through the handles. I eventually cut a piece of a coat hanger to help line up the holes. This helped a lot.
If you have removed and replaced the dash panels then the door panels are much easier. No lights, cables, and wires to install. Just determine where the screws go and let it rip. The hardest part is removing the door lock ****. You will need a tool to remove the clip that holds the **** as well as good eyes to see what you are doing.
I have not done a set of 78 on door panels in a while. But when I had my 78 I remember taking them off to get to the power windows. It was not hard at all. i seem to remember the arm rest having a couple of bolts in it to hold down the panel. After the bolts and screws were removed it lifted off of the track/panel at the top.
from what I remember it was pretty easy.
kdf
There's also one on TOP of the door panel towards the rear of the car by the window.
Also, one about an inch below and a few inches to the left of the arm rest. Believe there's one to the right of the arm rest as well. As long as the arm rest is securely strapped in, it should be decent.
The door handle also secures the door panel, and the mirror remote requires an allen screw to remove or install. Hope this helps.
Very easy.I've got an 82 with electric door locks and it was still a piece of cake.There is three screws to remove the door pull.Be careful taking off the vapor barrier.If you do tare it please replace it.These are very important.Replacements are avaliable in the cataloges for 19.00 a pair.Cheap insurance