Fixed Panel Replacements

For those not looking for door access to the quarter panels I am putting together a direct bolt-in fixed panel replacement.

Material

They are made from the same marine grade HDPE as used on the tailgate lids and opening side panels (just much thinner).

The hardware is quick access speed screws

Full Panel

The HPDE provides strength, durability and offers a clean look.

Hardware

I have made the hardware as simple as possible, all but two of the bolts are speed thread screws that thread into clips placed in the OE mount holes.

This is a fully reversible modification.

Here you can see the little nylon retaining ring that comes on the bolts and makes them captive to the panel once installed.

Installation

The instal process is very simple, after removing the washer from the bolt, push the bolt through the hole in the plastic and reinstall the washer on the back side.

Installation: Bolts

Once the nylon washer is over the bolt, it is captive to the panel.

Installation: Bolts

Whalla! Anti-gravity bolts that don't get lost when the panels are removed.

Installation: Clips

The speed bolts thread into clips that snap over the existing panel mount holes.

Installation: Bolts

Once the plastic plugs are removed the clips slide right on and hold very securely.

These are not low quality clips that with rattle out, they snap on with good force and have a recessed area that grips the hole.

A screw driver is needed to remove them.

Installation: Clips

All the clips snap right in.....

Except for one.

The hole for the lower front corner of the panels is a little bit further in from the edge than the others.

Installation: Clips

This is quickly remedied with nothing more than a file, by filing two notches into the edge it gives enough room for the clip to reach the hole.

Installation: Clips

Be sure that the hole on the clip lines up with the existing hole and you are all set.

Installation: Screws

The only bolts that are not speed thread or accessible with the clips are the two on the front of each panel.

For these I have self drilling screws that are easy to drive in with a regular drill.

Installation: Screws

All the bolts and screws use the same size and style of philips driver for uniformity and easy access.

Installation: Screws

The nice thing is that with the rear most speed screws undone, the plastic has enough flexibility to be pulled away from the opening for relatively easy access.

The screws have been undone in this picture.

Installation: Screws

And here you can see that the front screws are still in place. but the panel is bent out enough to get behind it.

Fixed Panels

A nice sturdy clean replacement.

These panels are a new item that still need testing and pricing, but I would love to hear what you think.

(looks like they need to cost $175 for the set)