Hiya

Im about to install my original door panels WITHOUT the rivets. All the rivetholes on doors are somewhat busted so they wont hold, also the rivets in panel dont stay in place, cardboard is ripped in those places. Has anyone experience installing door panels "other" way?

I can't remember where someone suggested me to use this http://www.3mselect.co.uk/p-1016-3m-5313-butyl-strip-sealant-20mm-x-10m.aspx to attach the panel to the door. I got small piece of this butyl strip and it seems very sticky. It suppose to be weather resistant.

Thoughts?:bulb:

I used industrial strength velcro on my clapped out doors. It works reasonably well.

I think I saw that someone reinforced panels with fiberglass resin so they would hold the clips again.

I repaired the fastener holes with Fiberglass Resin and then used Polyurethane to completely waterproof the remaining panel.

For the replacement fasteners, I used an off-shelf set that fit the panels and were a wee bit larger for the hole in the door. I believe they were for Dodge Trucks. The fit is perfect - got them at Advance Autoparts.

I like the industrial strength velcro idea that Hogie mentioned too! In other projects, I have used Dual Lock that is made by 3M - this stuff has incredible Shear strength and the adhesive sticks like crazy, you almost have to remove it with floss. It is almost Evil -but in a good way! Here is a link: 3M Dual Lock

Whatever you do, make sure to cover the inner door with some heavy ply plastic to aid in protection from H2O.

Good Luck

Edited March 30, 201113 yr by ZCurves

That dual lock is also an option, but it seems a bit too weak, it sticks to the metal but the contact surface (furry) does not convince me. (i use to work with those in my previous job)

I guess im going to try out that butyl strip, it costs a lot (29€/4meter roll) but its worth a shot. I'll report the results.

Curves: how did you sealed the panel with polyurethane? Did you coated it with it or?

Curves: how did you sealed the panel with polyurethane? Did you coated it with it or?

While I was recovering the door panels (with a kit from TooIntenseRestoration), I did the Fiberglass Resin first, then I simply brushed on the Polyurethane (2 coats). I finished up by painting the metal shell on the top of the panels. When everything had dried for a few days, I installed the re-upholstery kit.

IMHO, I would try alternative fasteners before using the Butyl - That stuff is horrible to work with.

Good Luck!

Standard Ford truck interior panel clips work great, slightly larger than stock so the are tight in the door panel and the door shell.

I recently got new Datsun door clips. Can't remember from who.....probably MSA.

I installed the panels using that butyl strip, i like the result. The strips aint messy at all, no colour stains or so. It also seals the door interior better than the original clips.