2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Howto Remove Front Door Panels

[jdwroten]

I'm running new wiring to the front door speakers (see my other posting today under accessories) if I can't figure out how to get existing wiring working with replacement radio.



Question: How to remove the vinyl door panels on the inside of the front doors (98 RAM 3500)? I removed the screw by the mirror and tried pulling but it didn't budge. Don't want to break anything with brute force, so I quit (as if I had brute force :-laf). Is there a preferred way to remove these panels? I just need the front part open to get to the speakers to run a new wire. Thanks.

 

[NSteever]

put some tape( so you don't scratch) on a flat pry bar and pry around the edges of the panel.

 

[JDougherty]

there is also a screw in the handle that you use to close the door... then us a flat prybar to pull the door out. i would also pull out the lock and window panel now... . i believe you lift from the back.

 

[Beast2B]

i bent the door panel the first time i removed it to replace the stock mirrors, so i got one of the 'special' pry bars that grab the "Christmas Tree" plastic attachment thingies between the door and the panel (Geno's Garage under the tools section).

 

[rrausch]

From working in a glass shop many years ago, I can tell you that there are always screws around the door-pull, in whatever form the door-pull takes. You'll have to look carefully and remove all the screws, then it is best to use a special tool sold for popping out the nylon pins that hold the door panel onto the door. The tool looks like a wide piece of steel with a handle, the business end of the tool is about 5" X 3", and has a 1/2" slot cut into it. The idea is you push the tool between the door panel and the door, at each nylon pin and pry the pin out of the door. Almost always the pins are made cheap and break--never fear you can always buy new ones--either generic at auto parts stores, or the exact ones at the dealership. The dealership pins are way more expensive though. But if you take you time, and pry gently you might not need to replace any. Then once all the pins are loose, you'll need to reach up and disconnect the window switches and electricals etc. , and then lift up on the door panel and it should come off.

 

[SSage]

You need a trim removal tool, it can be found at most auto parts stores. It fits the common GM/Chrysler plastic fastners. Start at the bottom and pry the panel off just enough where you can see the white plastic fastners. Use the trim to pry the fastner loose, if you pry on the door panel you'll damage it. The tool allows you to pry against the fastner's head, not the fragile door panel. The tool fits the fastner and its angled, makes the job easy once you break the first one loose. There should be three screws, two at the door pull and one near the mirror forward and up high.

 

[jdwroten]

Thanks everyone. I was able to use a pry bar (gently) to get the door off without breaking anything. None of the christmas tree gizmos broke, although some looked a bit ragged. Next time I go into the door I'll need a new set - and I'll get one of those door pullers tools. Thanks for all the help.