Door panel standard 1971

[Les G.]

I am looking to purchase a new left door panel for my 1971 from Al Knoch. They told me that the basic panel without the chrome or lock bezel is approximately $100.00 less. How hard is it to remove this pieces from my old door panel. I am not replacing the right door panel has anyone compared a original to an Al Knoch replacement?

[Edward J.]

Re: Door panel standard 1971

Les, I am not sure about Al Konchs panels, But I have put the basic door panel in from corvette america, Its a piece of cake, as the holes were already in the backside of door panel. you will however need new lock bezels as the factory ones are rivited, they will come off but theres no way of securing them unless you maybe 3M two sided tape them back on. You can always ask Al Knoch if theres are the same.

[Wayne W.]

Re: Door panel standard 1971

Its not that difficult. I have always used the std. panel.

[Reba W.]

Re: Door panel standard 1971

You don't say if you plan to have the car judged or not. The backing on reproduction panels is different from originals and usually can be seen when judging. For an extra fee, Knoch will supply the original look of cardboard.

[Alan S.]

Re: Door panel standard 1971

Hi Les,
Depending on the condition of your original door panel you may consider keeping what you have.
The 'regular' replacement door panel that AK sells is pretty easy to spot since it has an abs backing in place of the fiberboard backing of the original. I believe AK can make panels with a fiberboard backing at an additional cost $$.
Also, the surface graining in the raised center area above the arm rest is quite a bit different than on the originals.
I believe it's supposed to mimic the Comfort-weave pattern of the seats. Many people describe the pattern of the reproduction as being less distinct than the original. (It's mentioned in the CTIM&JG). What I notice is that if you look closely at your original, that Comfort-weave pattern was applied to a smooth area of vinyl, while on the reproduction, the pattern is applied to an already grained area; the same texture as the rest of the panel's vinyl skin. It gives the pattern a 'smeared' appearance. Once you notice this it's easy to spot.
So maybe a little more info to help with your decision.
Regards,
Alan

PS: Sorry to repeat Reba's point. I was still typing while she was posting!

[Reba W.]

Re: Door panel standard 1971

No problem with the overlap, Alan. It helps to reinforce one person's opinion. You and I usually think alike.