1980 Z28 Door Panel Installation

[PThomas]

I've replaced door panels in the cars several times, but I always have a problem getting the metal clips to line up with the holes. When I attempt to move them around (over and over again), I end up messing up the mount to where it will no longer hold the clip. Don't have any problems with the plastic clips along the bottom. Is there some secret technique I don't know about? Is it just me? Anybody else run into this?

 

[72SS9681]

I don't have any good suggestions, but I feel your pain! I've installed several aftermarket panels and had the same issue. If you still have the original panels you can try measuring and comparing them prior to trying to fit to the car. Not sure why when company's reproduce parts they can't measure the OEM part and "reproduce" it accurately.

 

[PThomas]

I'm glad it's not just me. There are no videos on YouTube or anywhere else that I can locate, and it seems like it's kind of important.

 

[fnoblitt]

fbody wearhouse has a vid on utube

 

[PThomas]

I watched it, but it doesn't really go into positioning the clips. Somehow, the guy is able to adjust his clips when they are already attached to the panel without them getting stuck or falling out or causing other clips to bust loose. I wish it was that easy.

 

[RickM]

I have heard that the PUI panels have the alignment issue. Is that the brand that you have?
I have purchased the legendary brand, I haven't installed them yet but I hope they do line up.

 

[PThomas]

The last ones I bought from Summit, but I've bought them from several different places since my first project 1980 Z back in 1998. They are all basically the same.

 

[80sz]

no your correct the side ones with the metal tabs dont line up well. i cut , taped, and glued to correct position, ya its a pain in the butt but will work, i used the old panels cardboard to fix..