Interior Door Panel Replacement

[J. Huber]

So a little follow-up. The new door panels are now on! I went ahead and bought new boards and an MB-Tex kit from GAHH. The material looked excellent. I had the boards covered at an automotive upholstery shop in Auburn. It wasn't cheap but I am satisfied with the outcome. He charged me for 2.5 hrs labor a side which initially struck me as high but there was some detailed work with the early armrest and hard pockets...

I installed it myself which was a bit of an adventure (always is when I grab a tool...) Anyway, the new panels fit pretty nice. I had to cut the holes for the locks and crank which came out pretty good. The trim fit but not as easily as with the original but still ok. One bummer...I bought a bunch of new screws since I was at it -- but a number of them didn't fit because the holes were enlarged. Instead of trying Joe's copper trick, I just used the old ones... Anyway, here are some photos of:
1. the old panel which obviously saw some water in its early life.
2. the untrimmed piece,
3. the driver's door (before the early door pull went on),
4. and an interior shot showing how the new MB tex matches up with my old seat and dash...

Thx for the help.

[Larry & Norma]

Did you make sure the plastic membrane between the door and your new door card was in place,
otherwise if it rains or just washing the car will destroy them again.

[J. Huber]

Hey Gnu, yes I cut some thick clear plastic to cover the innerds. I had to poke the various holes for the trim -- so its not completely moisture proof. Another decision I made was to duct tape it along the edges versus glue it. I figured if I ever need to get back in, it would be easier... Yes, I'm a lifetime member of the Mickey Mouse Club.

[ljg]

What is Joe's "copper trick?"
ljg

[J. Huber]

I believe the trick is take a small strand of copper wire and insert it into the enlarged hole as you screw in the original screw. It takes up the slack and when almost tight, break off the wire. Does that sound right, anyone? I am pretty sure JA17 shared that trick with us once. I have done it with wood on wood applications -- but never with metal.

[66andBlue]

What is Joe's "copper trick?"

Read reply #3 here:
http://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=14342.

[Rolland]

James, I think you did a very nice job on the install.

Rolland

[J. Huber]

Thanks Rolland. It is a nice freshen-up to a car that has given me a lot of pleasure over the years.

[49er]

Looks nice James! More drizzle here today. When are we ever going to get to drive our Pagodas again! Just got off the phone with the shop where my car fas been for the last few weeks. Getting the front end aligned today and I should be ready to go tomorrow. I will be soooo glad to get her home again:-)

John

[J. Huber]

I hear you John. I was able to sneak in a drive last Sunday so the shakes have settled down a bit. I bet you are going to be thrilled with your newly serviced baby. Have fun!