maztang (ryan)
+1y
I have debated this and been told not to do this and then also asked to do this. I figure, the hell with it and do it. When I make a set of door panels I make them to fit like stock, many people have asked me how and I kinda just ignored the question. But I finally decided to go ahead and show people how I do it so that maybe everyone will see how much time and work is actually involved in a set of panels that will fit like stock and you wont see a bunch of screws or bolts holding them on.
I started by taking the stock door panels and stripping them down to the bare wood for a pattern. Traced it all out and started cutting the aluminum to the shape. ***Originally we were going to use the stock door handles***
Next began the outside look of the panel (LOTS of measuring, cutting, drilling, etc)
Here is the real secret to mounting them like stock. I made a rear panel that held the oe grommets and then riveted it to the door panel. Maybe not much of a big deal or a secret but I had enough questions on how they mount to thin it was pretty cool.
Everything clecod up and ready to shoot together
All riveted together with the stock door handle
Then we decided against the stock door handle and ordered aftermarket handles. I had to make them fit into the holes which meant making a cover plate. We think that it really added to the look...
Both door panels all hand made and scuffed up with scotchbrite for a cool look!
Installed