What to use for plugging access holes...

[LBJ]

in the door panels? When I removed the plastic door trim panels, there was some tar-paper-like material covering the access holes on the steel door panel. The stuff was WAY old and I'd like to put something there before I replace the plastic trim panels. Any suggestions? I thought of using some sound deadener material, but that's about all I've come up with. I think it should be one piece so it doesn't come apart over time and held on with some contact cement. But, what will hold up over the years? LBJ

[Captkaos]

Are you talking about the paper sealing the holes? Newer cars use plastic to seal them.

[LBJ]

That might work. I could look for some heavy mil black plastic material like a drop cloth to use. Just need it to help counter water from coming inside the truck when it rains or when washed. In fact, I could cover the entire area under where the trim panel goes just to make it extra solid. Thanks for the tip.

[old Rusty C10]

either brown kraft paper or you can get the heavy painters plastic in lowes and use that

[blu87]

Tips
While you've got the panels off there's a few maintenance items you might want to consider.
White lube all the window gear sectors you see. Oil all the window and door linkage pivot points you can get to.
Vacuum all the crud from inside the door, make sure the bottom drain holes are open and then Ospho the bottom 1/3 of the inside of the door.
Replace any lazy door handle return springs.

[LBJ]

I have greased most of the points inside the door and window crank and thouroughly cleaned it inside. But, what is Ospho?

I am also going to add some of the sound deadener mat to the inside of the door skins (outer part).

I'd liked to have totally layered the inside of the cab with sound mat, but I just don't have to place to work inside. I would have done my own carpet install, but for the same reason.

[blu87]

Ospho is a product trade name for phosphoric acid....the life blood of anyone living near salt air conditions. Here on the gulf coast everyone uses it to stop rust. Commonly sold at all hardware stores. Spray inside all my doors and fender areas to prevent rust. It chemically combines with rust to stop further corrosion.

[Captkaos]

You might be able to get some from the dealer (might) my 87 and my 90 Burb still have those pieces in there...