Packard Forum Index » Post-War (1946-54)

So I'm repairing my rockers, but I'm heading down the rabbit hole!

I pulled my door panels, so while I've got them off I'm going to remove the trim so I can sand and polish it.

How is the trim above the window fastened? Whatever it is it's behind the seals, so I'm guess this is a good time to replace my seals as well?

Are there little bolts for the belt molding and then the one end is held by the door handle? I'm sure this will be clear once I look a bit closer





The little piece between the doors, how is this held on? I have tried to remove that interior trim piece before, but was concerned about damaging it so I left it alone. I may have to just polish this piece of SS in situ.





This is just an idea, I'll report later.

The top piece uses stamped sheet metal clips with tabs that bend over. The tabs are under the weatherstripping so obviously that will have to come off to RNR that part.

I forget on the middle piece but to remove the trim panel you need to get something really thin back there to squeeze the clips. There is a clip that goes in the hole and expands but it's not much force (unlike the wire molding clips for example). Perhaps some fishing line or really slender pliers would be appropriate to get behind there and start the clips.

I have this stuff off a car but it's at the shop. Might could get some photos later.

The cheap way to do it, if you don't mind, is just a bit of silicone seal, and it is temperature resistent, water-proof anyway.

And if something goes wrong and you really need it off, just pull it off and scrape whatever left on.

(I used this method to make all the chrome panels except those four on the doors stay on my 1995 Cadillac Fleetwood, after they kept falling off for years. No one could tell unless looking from underneath)