Door Panels Removal TSB 97-26-3

97-26-3, Publication Date: DECEMBER 22, 1997

FORD:

1996-98 TAURUS

LINCOLN-MERCURY:

1996-98 SABLE

This TSB article is being republished in its entirety to include 1997-98 model year vehicles and to include the latest level parts.

ISSUE:

Proper door panel removal procedure must be followed to prevent damage to the door panel and/or speaker grille.

ACTION:

Refer to the following Service Procedure in conjunction with the appropriate Taurus/Sable Service Manual, Section 01-05 when removing an interior door panel. Using this procedure will reduce the possibility of damage to the panel and/or speaker grille when removing the door panel.

SERVICE PROCEDURE

1. The interior release handle bezel must be removed prior to removing the interior door panel. This will prevent damage to the skin of the door trim panel.

NOTE:

ON 1998 MODEL YEAR VEHICLES, THE OUTSIDE PERIMETER SCREW MUST BE REMOVED PRIOR TO REMOVING THE DOOR TRIM PANEL.

2. Using Rotunda Tool (107-R0401 Windshield and Moulding/Trim Removal Kit), remove the door panel by pulling one (1) push pin at a time from the inner door skin.

NOTE:

DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REMOVE MORE THAN ONE (1) PUSH PIN AT A TIME.

3. When reinstalling the interior door panel, replace all of the retaining push pins with new Push Pins (N808994-S).