PLplastic sheets on doors behind trim panels

[odiekokee]

I need to lubricate the mechanisms that raise nad lower my windows. I took off the door panel to find that there is a sheet of plastic "tarred" on. What trouble will there be, if any, if i remove these sheets so that I can access the innards of the door?

Thanks.

[Levitan]

none. Try to scrape the tar of the metal with a plastic spatula of some kind, without ripping plastic. Do your mechanics. Wipe off area where tar sticks with a mild degreaser, let dry, restick plastic.

[bravekozak]

worst case scenario

If you can buy a roll of 3/16" round butyl tape, just cut a new piece of plastic and stick on the tape. I used to work at a manufacturer of sealants and tapes. the tape is made in the heavy mastic department on large Z-blade mixers. Resins are added to provide tack. It is then extruded through a die and wound onto release paper. I am sure they wouln't sell direct. Tremco.

http://www.tremcosealants.com/industrial/products/product_detail.asp?id=39

[Hot_Wheels]

i usally just peel mine back to and re stick it. whats the point of that? to keep moisture or sound out?

[m715]

The rolls of butyl are still available from glass shops. It also comes in 1/4 " round rolls also. I keep it by the case.

[blkfordsedan]

When I have to replace them, I go to Wal Mart & buy a heavy duty clear painter's drop cloth. Then cut a new piece and stick it to the door with double sided 3M tape and cover the outside edges with aluminum duct tape. Inexpensive & better than new!

[WmWatt]

Like he said. Pull it off gently along the edge and press it back on. I've done it a couple of times on my car.

[odiekokee]

What is the intended purpose of the stuff? I think i can salvage it, but my curiosity is up n0w.

[Pu241]

What is the intended purpose of the stuff? I think i can salvage it, but my curiosity is up n0w.

Basically, it's there as a moisture barrier for the back of the door cards.
Note the back of the door card, it is untreated compressed fiber board.
when it rains some water drains into the door and should be draining from the bottom of the door via weep holes. If this water leaks/splashes onto the back of the unprotected fiber board it will start to fall apart.
That said I've found more than a few doors without this plastic and the cards are no worse for it.
I also suspect it reduces air movement into and out of the cabin when the car is moving, by sealing off the major avenues of intrusion and exit.

[JPT]

What is the intended purpose of the stuff? I think i can salvage it, but my curiosity is up n0w.

It's there to add that nice, annoying buzzy sound to door mounted speakers.