1963 Kick Panel & Sill Plate Install

[Frederick H.]

The photo of the white car is an unrestored 1963 convertible, the red car is mine with the new kick panels installed. I am getting ready to install the sill plates but cannot secure the lower screws for the kick panels as the holes are wallowed out (I did not install the carpet or the kick panels).
1) Any suggestions for securing the lower kick plate screws before installing the sill plates? I figure I will have to fill the holes with? but open to other recommendations.
2) Any recommendations for amount of carpet overlap before installing the sill plates? I'm thinking 1/4-1/2"?
3) Installing screws in sill plates - going to wrap a little tape around the screw threads to avoid damage to carpet. Other ideas?

As alway, thanks in advance for your help.
Fred

[Richard M.]

Re: 1963 Kick Panel & Sill Plate Install

Fred,

1) You could drill another hole right next to the one that's there. If it won't line up, you could use some JB Weld or epoxy, set overnight then drill small hole first, then drill for screw size.

Another method I've used is like for C1 door panel screw holes. Make a 1/2"x1" sheet metal plate. Drill 2 holes for pop rivets at the ends. Rivet the plate centered over the wallowed out hole.
Set the kick panel in place, drill new hole in plate. It'll be good forever.

2) 1/2" better. Just make sure you push the carpet deep into the corner over the wire cover and up the inside wall with no bulges.

3) I use a hole punch, 1/4". Or use a soldering iron to punch through to make the holes. Or both.

Any screw thread catching is dangerous.

Rich

[Leif A.]

Re: 1963 Kick Panel & Sill Plate Install

For holes in fiberglass that are wallowed out and will be hidden from view, I use what's pictured below...plastic drywall anchors. Found in various sizes at your local hardware store. Simple, easy and effective.

[Frederick H.]

Re: 1963 Kick Panel & Sill Plate Install

Thanks Ricchard and Leif for the quick responses and great solutions!

Fred

[Richard M.]

Re: 1963 Kick Panel & Sill Plate Install

Leif, The only problem is you have to use NOS USA anchors, seriously.

I've had Chinese made anchors disintegrate after a few years. In fact, most Chinese plastic nowadays is really bad. It turns to powder.

Rich

[Leif A.]

Re: 1963 Kick Panel & Sill Plate Install

Leif, The only problem is you have to use NOS USA anchors, seriously.

I've had Chinese made anchors disintegrate after a few years. In fact, most Chinese plastic nowadays is really bad. It turns to powder.

Rich

Rich,
I always shop for Made in USA. Hillman anchors are made in USA and available through Tractor Supply (for one). You make a good point, though.

Hillman #10-12 x 1 in. Blue Ribbed Plastic Anchor with Screw ...

https://www.tractorsupply.com › ... › Plastic Anchor

Specifications ; Application/Use, Plastic anchor ; Country of Origin, Made in USA

[Richard M.]

Re: 1963 Kick Panel & Sill Plate Install

Leif, Good to know. Thanks.

[Frederick H.]

Re: 1963 Kick Panel & Sill Plate Install

Yep - thanks for the data on the anchors.

[Edward J.]

Re: 1963 Kick Panel & Sill Plate Install

Fred, I had someone show a trick with a paper clip once that worked, straighten it out and make a V the length of the screw, then make Two ninety degree bends at top and use some hot glue or JBWeld, really anything to hold in place. Once the screw engages it will push outward on the metal of the paperclip.

[Frederick H.]

Re: 1963 Kick Panel & Sill Plate Install

Thanks Edward!

[Richard M.]

Re: 1963 Kick Panel & Sill Plate Install

I found a few photos of those metal plates I discussed. I used them on all door panel restorations. Kits are available too.

[Frederick H.]

Re: 1963 Kick Panel & Sill Plate Install

Thanks Richard - photos always help.

[Dan B.]

Re: 1963 Kick Panel & Sill Plate Install

On the carpet question, I use an awl to make the screw hole first in the carpet, then follow that with the hot tip of my soldering iron. It "cauterizes" the hole and the screws won't pull the carpet threads when installing or removing in the future.