Removing Front door panels

[EscortG]

I am trying to remove the front door panels on my 1988 ford Escort Hatchback to replace the front speakers. I don't know how to remove the panels.

Please Help!

[turtle725]

first get a tool to remove the door handle about 4 -10 dollars. I don't know exact cost. most auto stores carry them. then check to see if their are screws in the door handle if their are they are usualy philips head. Then use a flat screw driver to slowly pop of the inside panel. They are plastic clips that hold it in place. Make sure you do them one at a time. they can break. I do believe you can buy replacements if they do. Just not sure where.

[UnexplodedCow]

You don't need to take the door handles off an '88. You just need a philips screwdriver. There are three screws on the bottom of the door panel, and one in the hand rest. Take the hand rest one out and you can sort of slide the hand rest back and then lift up. It should come out. If you have a reflector on the inside of your door ( I drive a '90 that has one) pop the reflector off and there'll be a screw behind that. The rest to taking off the panel is just plastic push pins, but be careful since the door panel material is cardboard. Oh, and books say a 6 1/2" speak will fit, but that's bunk. A 5 1'4" fits fine, and you'll have to drill at least three holes since the original speakers mount with three screws, and most aftermarket speakers mount with four. Happy replacing!