SO I removed all 4 door panels to install aftermarket speakers last night. Only to realize when I was done that all the little yellow tabs are still in my doors and the panel does not just "snap" back on them :- Any ideas or suggestions on the best way to put the panels back on? I tried to take out the yellow tabs and promptly broke 2 of 2 I tried on : This is on an 01 quad cab.

 

At first I thought it could jsut slide on to the tabs.....but they all go different directions?

 

The "Christmas Trees" need to be pulled from the door, and installed on the panel. They should have been removed with the panel and not left in the door. You musta used the "brute force" method of removal. They make a door panel remover that looks like a narrow chisel with a deep V in it. You slide it up into a tree and pop it out from the sheet metal. Breakage is normal, and you'll need some spares just in case. For now though, you can use a screwdriver and needlenose pliers to lift them out of the holes.

Tom

 

I didnt use that much force ;D They just popped right off no prob. I already killed 2 with a screwdriver and needle nose, so i guess I gotta find that tool? WIll harbor freight or even home depot have it? Or do i need a specialty auto tool or something?

 

I got mine a a local auto store (Pep Boys). About 12 bucks I think. You're right, it doesn't take much to pull the head thru the door panel fitting. BTW, you should be able to get new trees at the auto store too.

 

Cool, I have a pep boys just down the street 8) Thanks!

 

stop in to an Auto Glass Shop and they will remove those for you and will have replacement clips for you to purchase.

Most will do it for you on the spot at no charge or very little charge with the hopes that you will remember them when you need a windshield or other higher ticket service they provide.

We always did!

James

 

Popped my head in at Circuit City. Guy pulled em all for me with that tool. He said there really is no other way....its almost impossible to get the panel off without all those coming out of it. ANyway....thanks guys...all fixed

 

If you ever need more, just go to the autoparts store or an autobody supply shop. the dealer wanted almost $2 each for them. I got a whole box for $4.
-Jason

 

In a pinch if you don't have one of those door pad removal tools use a pair of long slender neddle nose pliers or your wifes heavy pinking shears, Used to do interior trim repair in the past and only used a pair of shears.
;D Al

 

a claw hammer works wonders!

 

So does one of the weed puller tools my grandma used to use. It looks like a bent screwdriver with a wider flat end and a "V" notch at that flat end. Works excellent on the door panels, not so hot on the weeds!! Kevin