Window Channels

[68FORDJBM]

I'm getting ready to remove my doors to replace the lower skins and was wondering if now would be a good time to order new window channels. The channels are obviously shot and the windows rattle like HE double hockey sticks. Is it easier to replace them on the bench or when the door is reinstalled?

Just wondeing if I should spend the money now on window channels or move forward on the door skin project and relace them later

Thanks in advance

[flyboy2610]

I would replace all the weatherstripping while the door is off the truck.

[68FORDJBM]

already got the weather stripping on the door frames. I'm specifically asking about the window channels for the glass

[Kurt Combs]

This might help you decide:

http://www.fordification.com/tech/doors01.htm

I am becoming more aware of my tendency to keep disassembling as I uncover more and more that needs my attention when I am doing a project like working on a door. Let us know how it comes out because mine rattle but i am afraid to tear into a door for fear I will still be working on it next winter.

[72BahamaBlue]

I did all the metal work before installing any of the rubber pieces.
As far as replacing the window channel with or without doors on the truck, it's really fairly easy either way; with the doors off they can move around, but easier access. Doors installed, a lot less movement to deal with.
You might want to de-burr the large square opening after removing the door panels, those serrated edges are pretty dang sharp...

[colnago]

How difficult is it to paint around the window channels and weather stripping? Mine need replacing too, but I figured I'd do all of that after new paint.

Joseph

[68FORDJBM]

Thanks for the tips and questions. I didn't consider waiting until after the paint - I don't think I can take the extra noise much longer. I want to be able to hear my radio again

[68 Ford Stepside]

The channels on the old flareside were as hard as steel after 45 years of use. Getting them out was a pain. Installing the new ones was a breeze.

[toddspeed]

Cool link, thanks!

Yes it seems like every damn project turns into 5 others with these trucks. The "well I've got it apart this far...." turns into $300 and 2 weeks later on a regular basis.

This might help you decide:

http://www.fordification.com/tech/doors01.htm

I am becoming more aware of my tendency to keep disassembling as I uncover more and more that needs my attention when I am doing a project like working on a door. Let us know how it comes out because mine rattle but i am afraid to tear into a door for fear I will still be working on it next winter.

[colnago]

Thanks for the tips and questions. I didn't consider waiting until after the paint - I don't think I can take the extra noise much longer. I want to be able to hear my radio again

I know what you mean! I probably won't paint for another two years. It might be worth it to buy this stuff twice. Once for my sanity, and once for the finished product!

Joseph

[F100builder]

IMO, I'd remove the doors for the repair work and then reinstall to install the anti-rattle kits to keep the doors from falling over or moving around. Also, if you're painting soon, I'd wait and install fresh stuff after the paint is cured. If you're not going to paint, I'd live with the old stuff until you're ready. The complete anti-rattle kits are about $100.