rocker molding installation on a 67
Is there a trick to installing these . I learned they need to slide on from the rear as the front hubs block a straight line for installation . I can't seem to get the rocker to slide over the retainer / I have even put washers behind the retainer to gain extra space . Were there spacers behind the retainer that I may be missing . These are nos parts that came with the car when I purchased it so I don't think the parts are an issue . Any help will be very much appreciated . Thanks in advance Jeff
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Re: rocker molding installation on a 67
Jeff,
Do you have side pipes? If so, I feel your pain. If not, I'm guessing installation of your rockers are no easier. I've done this task a couple of times and have had no love either time. Lots of patience and tapping with a rubber mallet to "ease" the rocker along. Raise the car, remove the rear wheel and start sliding the rocker on the retainer. When it stops sliding, start tapping. I've often wondered (and asked) how they did this at the factory because we all know they didn't have the time to finesse these things onto each car.
Let us know how it goes and if you find any "tips" along the way.Leif
'67 Coupe L79, M21, C60, N14, N40, J50, A31, U69, A01, QB1
Top Flight 2017 Lone Star Regional -
Re: rocker molding installation on a 67
Jeff, I have installed a few Hundred sets of Rocker panels over the last 40 years. They are never easy. Reproduction sets are much harder than OEM sets. Also, if the car has had nose work it may also be tough. Anyway, the retainers must be tight with no spacers behind. Make a small bend to the rear top of the retainer. this will help with starting the process. With the rear wheels off, start the rocker about 1/2 way onto the retainer and make sure it snaps down onto the retainer. Then start sliding it forward with someone holding pressure down. As stated above by Leif, a plastic or rubber mallet will make the job easier.
Good Luck, JoeComment
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Re: rocker molding installation on a 67
Small revelations : Before I read Joe's post I had at the molding / I took the rear most screw out of the retainer and using a finger I bent the retainer up enough to start the molding onto the retainer/ easy peasy / once it started on the retainer it slid down with little trouble a rubber mallet aided in the process at the hard spots . I was going to push the molding past it's front position so I could replace the screw I took out but once I got the molding on I realized that the back screw was superfluous so I left it out and once all the exterior fasteners were in place the molding was rock solid . One other thing keeping the door open when you do this eliminates the possibility of scratching the door paint . Hope this helps others . JeffComment
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Leif
'67 Coupe L79, M21, C60, N14, N40, J50, A31, U69, A01, QB1
Top Flight 2017 Lone Star RegionalComment
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