RS door panel install - has anyone here done one?

dd74 · 05-12-2003, 02:25 PM

How hard is it? For a novice, which I am.

jakermc · 05-12-2003, 03:25 PM

VERY easy. Only tricky part is the door handles. You have to drill into the metal door, insert some hardware that acts like a drywall anchor, and use a special tool (included with the kit from AppBiz) to expand the anchor. The tool doesn't always grab real well so this part of the job was a pain. I found it easier to make a small slit in the plastic liner and reach up behind the anchor to hold it and keep it from spinning. Make sure to tape up the liner afterwards.

Installing the speaker enclosures took a little time, but it wasn't difficult by anymeans.

Again, door panels are an easy job. Anyone with a screwdriver can do it.

dd74 · 05-12-2003, 03:34 PM

Okay. Does it come with instructions of any kind?

k9handler · 05-12-2003, 05:37 PM

yes...Bob @ appbiz was a great help.
Simple project can be done in about 30-45 min per door.

jakermc · 05-12-2003, 06:18 PM

Check the technical articles on this site for instructions on removing the stock door panel. The kit from appbiz comes with a one page instruction sheet that details the few steps you have to do once the stock panel is off.

Biff · 05-12-2003, 06:22 PM

Hows the quality of the appbiz panel??

k9handler · 05-12-2003, 08:02 PM

the parts I ordered are great quality (Handles and pulls)
I purchased marine grade vinyl and made my own panels...entire cost of the project was under $150

dd74 · 05-12-2003, 08:27 PM

Smitty - It looks like I have to do mine in red, because my DAD seats are red. I may also have to go with red carpeting, though I don't think red carpeting is made in the RS style, perlon, etc.

How did you install the straps and door release functions? That's the hard part of the install, so I'm told.

k9handler · 05-12-2003, 09:11 PM

it's pretty simple....with the panels off, attach the pulls with the nut/bolt provided. Also drill out the mounting holes for the handle and insert the anchors. Mount the panels, as you do this guide the pull strap through the panel and then simply secure the panel to the door with the clips. I have power windows so I had to guide the wires through as well...but this was a very simple task.

dd74 · 05-12-2003, 10:15 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by k9handler
it's pretty simple....with the panels off, attach the pulls with the nut/bolt provided. Also drill out the mounting holes for the handle and insert the anchors. Mount the panels, as you do this guide the pull strap through the panel and then simply secure the panel to the door with the clips. I have power windows so I had to guide the wires through as well...but this was a very simple task.

I'm just a wee bit confused. The pull straps act as the door release with your panels, right? In short, they open the door from the inside, correct?

k9handler · 05-13-2003, 04:38 AM

that is correct, they simply attach to the lever inside the door with a nut/bolt.

cegerer · cegerer's Garage

Here's an archive thread that might help:

The Final RS Door Panel Thread!!

-- Curt

TerryBPP · 05-13-2003, 07:12 AM

Make sure when you buy the you tell them you either want the RS or the RS America. The difference is in the door pull. The RS is a horizontal strap and the America is a vertical pull down. I installed the RS on my 76 and it required a little more work. I had to cut a whole and rig the door accuator with a cotter pin.