Removing Door Panel [Archive] - Chevelle Tech

: Removing Door Panel


1972Chevelle454
May 4th, 03, 6:43 PM
My Window has fallen of its track and has fallen into my door. What is the process for removing the door panels. Any suggestions on how to fix this? Thank You

Widetires22
May 5th, 03, 12:05 AM
Besides all of the obvious phillips screws along the sides and bottom of the door panel, you must remove the arm rest (more phillips screws) and take off the window crank handle. This is removed best with a special tool that you should be able to get at the local NAPA store. It should be about $5.00. If you push on the door panel somewhat near the window handle you should see a "C" type wire around the stem of the handle. The tool slips behind the window crank handle, you want to line up the tool with the 2 "tips" of the C clip, then tap the end of the tool and the clip will either come off half way or all of the way, then the handle can be removed. You'll also need to unscrew the door lock knob, then the panel should slide up, then forward over the door handle.

As for how to fix the window, you'll have to describe what you see in there once the panel is off.

The tool I referred to is a common tool for removing these window crank clips from GM cars of this era. The parts store should have one or be able to get one easily!

Good luck.

Widetires22
May 5th, 03, 12:38 AM
This is what the window crank clip looks like:

http://www.hinshawschevelle.com/shop/index.php?scat=204&Item=4017

:cool:

JWagner
May 5th, 03, 2:05 AM
Once you have all the screws and handles off, put a putty knife between the panel and the door frame and lift the panel off . There are about 12 push-in fasteners that hold the panel on along the front and rear edges.