Installing new door panels 67 GTX - anyone try self-adhesive Velcro??

[AR67GTX]

I’ve been researching for tips for installing the multitude of mounting clips on new door and quarter trim panels. I know what Legendary says to do but it seems like I’m going to end up with lumps under the vinyl at a lot of the clip locations no matter how careful I am. Read a couple of comments that suggested just slappping them on with Velcro to secure them.

So, has anyone used Velcro instead of panel clips? If so how did it work? Velcro is not exactly paper thin, does Velcro noticeably space the panel off the door?

 

[R413]

Why wouldn't the factory method of securing them work for reproduction door panels?

Velcro is fine, but it's thick. And how do you get the door panel off later since the panels are not flexible.

 

[AR67GTX]

Scott, that’s some of the questions I’m asking about, asking if anyone has tried it and if so, how did it work. I’ve read that the Legendary panels board is not as tough and durable as the originals and prone to clip damage from removal and installation. Also that the process of removing part of the cardboard to start forming the pocket for the clip and avoid wadding up cardboard inside the pocket in the process and creating visible lumps is problematic, although I feel pretty confident of my skills. I don’t think you could use continuous strips of Velcro or you probably wouldn’t ever get the panel back off the door. I’m not sold on the idea but thought it was worth asking about considering what some seem to thing are shortcomings in the Legendary panels - which I don’t know if they are well founded or not.

 

[Mackman]

Use the clips and the correct tool to remove in the future.

 

[Dennis H]

I would not hesitate to try this.

 

[71RRHI]

I rember a thread about this awhile ago. It was recomended to use small strips about 1" at each location the clips would go.

 

[R413]

I guess it's too much to ask from aftermarket to have the reproduction boards the correct thickness and be as strong as originals.

 

[AR67GTX]

I plan on installing the clips, or at least try to. I’ll see how it goes removing the initial layer of board and cutting the pocket. Not sure the small screwdriver with a curved (bent) tip is up to the job. I’ll try sharpening it and if that isn’t effective, fabricate a tool from a piece of rod I have. It sounds like Legendary used to supply a tool some time ago but they don’t mention one being available now.

If it’s not going well I may try the Velcro. Should be easy to reverse if not working.

 

[toolmanmike]

I’ve been researching for tips for installing the multitude of mounting clips on new door and quarter trim panels. I know what Legendary says to do but it seems like I’m going to end up with lumps under the vinyl at a lot of the clip locations no matter how careful I am. Read a couple of comments that suggested just slappping them on with Velcro to secure them.

So, has anyone used Velcro instead of panel clips? If so how did it work? Velcro is not exactly paper thin, does Velcro noticeably space the panel off the door?

I wasn't too keen on cutting out the backing for the clips. The wrinkles did go away after a day in the sun. I have replaced some of the metal clips with the plastic Christmas Tree type ones. THey push i easy, hold tight, and don't disturb the paint like metal clips can.

 

[AR67GTX]

I got the back panels done. It’s kind of nerve wracking digging out the cardboard pocket. Even though Legendary perforates the cardboard it looks like they perforated it nearly all the way through. On the edge I measured the cardboard at about .130-.135” which is kind of an odd dimension. The first one I dug out about .110” deep before I realized the perforation was nearly full depth, but it looked OK with a clip installed. After that I shot for around .090” depth so there was still plenty of board to be able to pop the clip loose without damage to the board (I hope). I think Legendary adds a very thin layer of felt between the board and the vinyl that may have not been in originals. That may help prevent the clips from showing through on the front.

I’m going to switch to the sheet metal clips like my old 64 Sport Fury had. I like them better than the wire clips. Rear done.