Interior Trim Panel Removal?

'99 Montana EWB with rear Heater / AC

Figured out my problem with the Evap system triggering the CEL.

Fuel Filler vent pipe broken off at the rubber hose going back to the tank. New one coming tomorrow for $230...ouch!

While in there, I noticed that the shield that protects the filler pipe acted as a moisture retainer and rotted out part of the inner wheel house only on the driver's side. This is the van's last hurrah at close to 300,000 Kms, it will likely only be around until next year when my daughter graduates and moves from her rented house.

I need to patch it up for now, but with the pipe removed and the two fuel tank rubber hoses temporarily taped up, I don't feel safe welding in the wheel house area. Was planning to remove the interior panels on the rear driver's side from the 'C' pillar back to the hatch opening.

Once I remove the interior panels I will be able to figure out where the rear heater, AC evaporator and vents are so that if I pop rivet some new metal in, I won't drill through a line, the heater core or the evaporator.

I see the Torx bolts holding the seat belt anchors in place, but what holds the side panels on, and how do you remove them? Do I have to remove the upper panels that bridge between the headliner trim and the lower panels first?

There are screws, plastic retainers, etc.....some parts pop off, and expose the screws......carefully pry.....if it starts to budge, it's a plastic retainer(like a christmas tree retainer)....if it doesn't budge, it's screwed it....

There are screws, plastic retainers, etc.....some parts pop off, and expose the screws......carefully pry.....if it starts to budge, it's a plastic retainer(like a christmas tree retainer)....if it doesn't budge, it's screwed it....

That worked out well for the most part, with one caveat:

Putting the panel back is a PITA. The retainers don't necessarily line up as you ease the panel back into place. Some retainers have a tendency to miss entirely and go sideways. I bought new ones and managed to break three.

You can't see what you're doing when you line everything up and even when you start at one end and work your way to the other, there's no guarantee that the panel fasteners will align. Poor engineering idea in my mind. I like Ford's idea better. Fasten everything with recessed screws.