1965 Door panel Lock

[Dave B.]

I am in the process of repainting, and am having difficulty removing the locks so I can remove the door panels. I know that the lock is held on by a horseshoe shaped clip that should be inserted vertically. However the lock is indented about 1/8 of an inch or so into the vinyl, and I am afraid I will rip the vinyl with the tool.
Any ideas?

[Jim T.]

Re: 1965 Door panel Lock

Have not done this to a 65, but on my 68 and 70 I have used a special tool that I bought for removing locks and handles on my 58 (Impala) in the mid 60's. If you could see another lock you would have the advantage of were the removable clip is located on the lock. The lock was designed to be removed. Perhaps there is a picture in one of the part mags of your lock.

[Wayne K.]

Re: 1965 Door panel Lock

Dave,

You may have to try an angle pick hooking the closed end of the clip while you force the panel towards the outside of the car with your free hand then pulling the clip out.

[Rick A.]

Re: 1965 Door panel Lock

had a similar problem removing the handles on my 1963 so I could get the door panel off - ended up shaping a stiff piece of wire to get a grip on the clip and that got the ornery clip off - just a thought

[Dave B.]

Re: 1965 Door panel Lock

Jim, Wayne and Rick....Many thanks. Will try both and exercise Patience.
Dave