While doing research for the CSL install, I found no comprehensive DIY for this project. I had to pick through various forums, YouTube videos, and random decade old PDFs to piece together some sort of a tutorial. I decided that I was going to take on a clear and comprehensive DIY that could be used by others in the future. Once it’s finished I will host the PDF on my website and give it to Karbonius so they can provide it to future customers. For now, here’s some info and photos of the install.
Everything stripped out of the interior.
Mirror adjustment harness was extended. I cut, stripped, soldered, heat shrunk then ran it to its new home under the center console.
Door brackets being installed
Here is the hardware I used. If anyone is doing this project and wants the correct hardware, please reach out. I have more than enough and I will send you a set for free.
Vapor barrier modified to fit new brackets.
Onto the door panels. Here is everything laid out for install.
Photos of the door panel modification and install. I had a lot more photos for you to follow along visually, but I reached the maximum attachment limit for my post and I had to delete them. Here are a few.
Prior to installing the new panel, I added a little bit of sound deadening to the back. It added about 7.5oz of weight to the panel. The panel now sounds and feels very solid, yet lightweight at the same time. It is a strange combination that is hard to describe. It’s one of those things that if you knocked on the panel with your knuckle, you’d know right away what failing to describe.
After the new panel was on, I replaced all of the clips with the version that contains the foam o-ring vapor barrier. They feel more solid and should allow less movement / potential rattling issues as well.
Door handles were replaced. I specifically chose the non HK versions for a more minimalist look. I never realized how worn the chrome on my door handle was until I held them side by side.
Here is the freshly modified and restored door panel. Also some shots in the sun so you get a more true look. The process for the rear panels was very similar so I will not be posting that unless someone would like to see something specific.
Mocked up on the door to verify the bracket location. It was such a relieving and satisfying feeling when the bracket lined up perfectly with the holes in the door panel.
Everything installed. Turned out exactly how I imagined. I will try to capture some more outdoor beauty shots soon.
Here’s everything that was permanently removed.
This was definitely a fun but highly involved project. I learned a ton in the process. I am by no means the leading authority on CSL door panel installs, but I now have a really good grasp on the project. If anyone needs help with this project, please reach out. If you’re local I can help you in person, and if not I can FaceTime to answer any questions as you do the install.
Everything stripped out of the interior.
Mirror adjustment harness was extended. I cut, stripped, soldered, heat shrunk then ran it to its new home under the center console.
Door brackets being installed
Here is the hardware I used. If anyone is doing this project and wants the correct hardware, please reach out. I have more than enough and I will send you a set for free.
Vapor barrier modified to fit new brackets.
Onto the door panels. Here is everything laid out for install.
Photos of the door panel modification and install. I had a lot more photos for you to follow along visually, but I reached the maximum attachment limit for my post and I had to delete them. Here are a few.
Prior to installing the new panel, I added a little bit of sound deadening to the back. It added about 7.5oz of weight to the panel. The panel now sounds and feels very solid, yet lightweight at the same time. It is a strange combination that is hard to describe. It’s one of those things that if you knocked on the panel with your knuckle, you’d know right away what failing to describe.
After the new panel was on, I replaced all of the clips with the version that contains the foam o-ring vapor barrier. They feel more solid and should allow less movement / potential rattling issues as well.
Door handles were replaced. I specifically chose the non HK versions for a more minimalist look. I never realized how worn the chrome on my door handle was until I held them side by side.
Here is the freshly modified and restored door panel. Also some shots in the sun so you get a more true look. The process for the rear panels was very similar so I will not be posting that unless someone would like to see something specific.
Mocked up on the door to verify the bracket location. It was such a relieving and satisfying feeling when the bracket lined up perfectly with the holes in the door panel.
Everything installed. Turned out exactly how I imagined. I will try to capture some more outdoor beauty shots soon.
Here’s everything that was permanently removed.
This was definitely a fun but highly involved project. I learned a ton in the process. I am by no means the leading authority on CSL door panel installs, but I now have a really good grasp on the project. If anyone needs help with this project, please reach out. If you’re local I can help you in person, and if not I can FaceTime to answer any questions as you do the install.
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