Removing Door Trim

Happy New Year,
I can't open the drivers side door on my '65 coupe from the outside. I imaginge that one of the rod clips has broken. I have stripped the door down before, but not since the car was restored and painted. Any tips for removing the door card without scratching up the paintwork. I plan on using a screwdriver right under each clip, I'll tape over the paintwork near the clip and will wrap the end of the screwdriver in tape. Will I be able to work on the inner door mechanism with the window still in place / pushed up. Thanks as always.

horseballz said:

I suggest you go to Harbor Freight and get a set o these:

http://www.harborfreight.com/5-piece-auto-trim-and-molding-tool-set-67021.html

these:

http://www.harborfreight.com/4-piece-nylon-pry-bar-installer-kit-95214.html

or these:

http://www.harborfreight.com/5-piece-upholstery-and-trim-tool-set-99739.html

I have the yellow set and they work quite well, but the more expensive metal set with handles appear sturdier.
Just My $.02,
Gene

Click to expand...

Good thought, I'll pick some up tonight. Thanks.

So, problem solved. I needed to take the door card off as I couldn't open the drivers side door from the outside. I suspected that the rod had become detached. It had, a $4 plastic pawl had failed. Anyway, what I learned dismantling the door.
1. I'ts tricky to get the C-Clips out from the door handles, first off I couldn't remember which way they went in, second, even with the correct tool, you do scuff up the door card after multiple attempts. When I put the door back together I took a photo of the clip install for future.
2. Even with a set of plastic trim trim removal tools from Harbor Frieght, I couldn't get the door card off undamaged. you need to apply pressure directly under each point. Good news, using tape, I protectected my new door paint without damage. Take your time, this is one of those jobs that I'm sure sucess comes with practice.
3. Putting the window up and lossening the left hand window guide bolts (4) and removing the bolts, will allow you to slide the left hand window guide to the right, inside the door, and allow the latch to be removed.
4. While the latch was out I cleaned it up, installed all new rod retainers and pawl, lubed it up.
5. You can only remove / reinstall the latch when it is 'locked'
6. I already knew this, but don't overtighten the latch screws or the serrated washers will tear up your paint.
7. Getting the rods back in place with the latch installed is tricky, but can be done, use a mirror and patience.
8. I bought new vapor barriers. When installing the new door card, use the vapor barrier from the opposite door to help align the door clips on the door card prior to install. It's not intuitive from the door card where they go.
9. Use a knife to cut the door card for the door pull screws, small incision only needed.
10. Take your time, as always a digital camera helps.

Door latch works now, I damaged the door card, but no biggy, didn't mess up the paintwork, enjoyed it.