70 NOS Standard Door Panel Fitment Issues

[Bill L.]

The NOS passenger side door panel is giving me fits.

I was able to remove the warpage by setting it in the son and rigging up some weights to weigh it down to remove the warpage.

It also seems the metal along the top is not right. If I line up the lock knob hole and handle hole the panel sets flat on the door but won't hook in to the top.

If I hook the panel in to the top, the lock and handle holes do not line up and the panel will not sit flat against the door.

Any ideas?

Thanks, Bill

[Paul D.]

Re: 70 NOS Standard Door Panel Fitment Issues

No ideas, but will tell you I purchased new GM deluxe door panels in the mid 80's for my 71 and had (have) the exact same issue with the passenger door. Also, the door panels developed the splits in the armrest area within 3 years. Only exposure to sunlight was at the occasional car show or outing. I have the car apart (again) now and will probably replace with ABS reproductions of the standard panels when I go back. Chip.

[Bill L.]

Re: 70 NOS Standard Door Panel Fitment Issues

No ideas, but will tell you I purchased new GM deluxe door panels in the mid 80's for my 71 and had (have) the exact same issue with the passenger door. Also, the door panels developed the splits in the armrest area within 3 years. Only exposure to sunlight was at the occasional car show or outing. I have the car apart (again) now and will probably replace with ABS reproductions of the standard panels when I go back. Chip.

I think the combination of sun and weight has gotten the door panel to just work. You are right about the splitting. I was able to fix the drivers side with a repair kit but I am sure it is just temporary. If I were to do it again I would send my original panels with fiber board backing to Al Knock to be reskinned.

Kind Regards, Bill

[Ron G.]

Re: 70 NOS Standard Door Panel Fitment Issues

I always advocate that I would rather restore an original component than purchase a reproduction. I have a guy up here in Connecticut that can repair splits in door panels and re-incorporate the original grain back in the panel itself as well as match the color. If you are interested in getting in touch with him please reach out to me at: RgodutiLt1@yahoo.com.

- Ron

[Bill L.]

Re: 70 NOS Standard Door Panel Fitment Issues

I always advocate that I would rather restore an original component than purchase a reproduction. I have a guy up here in Connecticut that can repair splits in door panels and re-incorporate the original grain back in the panel itself as well as match the color. If you are interested in getting in touch with him please reach out to me at: RgodutiLt1@yahoo.com.

- Ron

Could not agree more Ron. Right now my door panels are in great shape. I was able to fix the one split on the driver's side door panel.

Kind Regards, Bill