1996 Rocker Panel Question

[Nick S]

I was thinking about getting new rocker panels, having them painted, and then putting them on the car to replace the originals. My question is this: Are the bolts under the rocker panel and the hex screws on the upper part of the panel the only things holding it to the car? Someone mentioned to me that they thought that the rocker panels are also glued to the car. This sounded a little strange to me, so I thought that I would tap the wealth of knowledge here to find out if that is true. Oh, and no, I have not tried removing the rocker panels to find out for myself. I figure I will go that route if no one here has the answer.

Thank you for any replies.

Nick

 

[Ken]

No glue, just bolts and screws.

 

[Nick S]

Thanks Ken. I thought that had to be all there was holding it on. Glue would have made that a total pain to take off.

Nick

 

[Green LT1]

I have had both rockers off of my 96 on a few occasions, mainly for cleaning purposes. As the above post indicates, just bolts and hex screws. Watch out for the screw that must be accessed in the rear wheel housing, just to the rear of the doors. Don't get anxious and start pulling at the rocker, as you may have forgotten one of the screws. I have found it easiest to remove the fasteners from each end, and work toward the middle. It prevents possible cracking due to the rocker sagging. Once you know where all the fasteners are, it's not a bad job at all. Good luck!