I have a bad check strap in the right front door of my 87 300TD. Bought new check strap, painted it body color and am ready to go. I've removed the trim cover inside behind door mirror, bolt behind black door handle panel, black "U" shaped trim by striker, and locking knob.

Looking through other posts on the subject, and trying the techniques advised- this is looking like a royal PITA and frought with danger of breaking 22 year old clips, not to mention the panel. Before I resign to really "getting into it" and practice in swearing like a sailor, is it worth just spending the 1.5 hr labor that the MBZ dealer will likely charge to do this???

J.G.

No, you just have to tear into it. I've never taken off a door panel that something didn't break, but it always seems to go back together just fine. If you're sensitive about such things have a few drinks before you start.

Not to hard, just make sure the inside door handel stuff is out. Then you push up on the panel, some times it can be hard but it will come. Also unscrew the door lock nob and take off.

WHEW!!! Thanks gents. Sometimes you just need to hear somebody say "nah...have at it" to get the motivation and courage. Job Done!
Time:1.5 hrs
Broken clips: ZERO!!
Unaccounted for "spare parts": ZERO
All door mechanicals functioning properly?: YES!

I love it when a plan comes together!

J.G.

p.s.: Failure mode- mounting "ears" had broken off the check strap unit at the 2 "bulkhead" bolts

The only part that I have trouble with when removing the door panel, is the mirror trim panel. About 50/50 on getting it off with the upper post intact.

__________________

Gone to the dark side

- Jeff