What's the trick to removing interior panels without damage?

[2002maniac]

I can do the door panels allright but I've never been able to get the rear panels out without tearing them or bending the aluminum trim. I found a nice black set at the junkyard and I would like to get them out intact. Thanks!!

[BillWilliams]

Start by loosening up the clip around the sides and bottoms.

Then carefully slide a wide bladed screwdriver or putty knife, on the backside of the panel, up to the chrome strip and tap lightly up. Be careful and work gently from the front to the back.

[Mike Self]

1. Remove rear seat back and cushion

2. Open quarter windows

3. Check leading edge of quarter panel upholstery to see if there are clips holding it to the B pillar (just behind the door). Most cars have the holes for the clips, but no clips, even from the factory.

4. If no clips, grab bottom edge of panel and push upward. It should pop off just like the door panels do. You might have to wiggle it back anf forth a bit, but it should come off pretty easliy. Sometimes a rubber mallet applied to the bottom edge will help.

That's it.--unless it's a '68 or '69 with the seat belt shoulder strap passing thru a hole in the panel. Then you have to unbolt the belt first.

mike