Converting 72 door panels to metal?

[JSchwagerl]

I want to convert my 72 plastic inner door panels to the 67-71 metal style. Anyone complete this and have a parts list? I am guessing I need the metal screws and new armrests? Then I need to figure out how to change from the plastic door panel push pins to the screw holes for the new metal panels?

[Richard]

Originally Posted by JSchwagerl

I want to convert my 72 plastic inner door panels to the 67-71 metal style. Anyone complete this and have a parts list? I am guessing I need the metal screws and new armrests? Then I need to figure out how to change from the plastic door panel push pins to the screw holes for the new metal panels?

Using the panel itself and upper trim piece as a template for screw holes should be easy enough. Note you will need new window regulators and door controls as the handle shafts are longer on the 72. If they are not changed the handles will stick out from the door panel 1/4"-3/8"

[JSchwagerl]

Richard, are the metal screws on the 67-71 just screwed right into the door itself? I don't see any other clips or hardware listed on LMC.

[RustyPile]

Originally Posted by JSchwagerl

Richard, are the metal screws on the 67-71 just screwed right into the door itself? I don't see any other clips or hardware listed on LMC.

No, sheet metal screws are not used for this. Special 1/4 X 20 nuts are welded to the steel door. These nuts are called Projection weld nuts, available at most hardware stores.

[72c20customcamper]

Originally Posted by JSchwagerl

Richard, are the metal screws on the 67-71 just screwed right into the door itself? I don't see any other clips or hardware listed on LMC.

The panel screws are machine screws the screw into nuts mounted on the door . Most likely easiest way to do it is to use rivet nuts . The armrest would be the same deal

[JSchwagerl]

Perfect. I found a rivet nut kit on Amazon. I want to make sure I have all the parts here before I tackle the project after Hot August Nights.

['68OrangeSunshine]

Actually they are spring clip nuts. Squeeze the spring and they detach from the door body. Ace Hardware bin item. 1/4-20 is correct.

[72c20customcamper]

Originally Posted by '68OrangeSunshine

Actually they are spring clip nuts. Squeeze the spring and they detach from the door body. Ace Hardware bin item. 1/4-20 is correct.

True but making a square hole and in the right spot is more work than rivnuts. I had to replace a couple on my 68 and used the ones you mentioned.

['68OrangeSunshine]

Originally Posted by 72c20customcamper

True but making a square hole and in the right spot is more work than rivnuts. I had to replace a couple on my 68 and used the ones you mentioned.

Admittedly, I am not familiar with the MY '72's door anatomy. A small rectangular box for each clip nut exists in the '67-'71 doors.
Sorry for butting in.