Rocker molding clip solution for '65 Barracudas

[Bob Jasinski]

Finding new or unbroken rocker molding clips for '65 Barracudas is very difficult. Whatever you do, don't throw out the originals, they can be reused at very little cost with this simple method. The rocker panel holes the molding attaches to are 5/16". Well nuts are the answer! From Amazon I bought a package of 25 ea. 5/16" (hole size) well nuts with an #8-32 thread. I used flat head stainless screws #8-32 x 3/4" long.

Well nuts: Amazon.com

Screws: Amazon.com

I removed any plastic flash left over by the broken clip part that goes into the rocker holes. Then gently, with a drill bit just a bit larger than the diameter of head of the flat head screw, cut a recess area in each clip so that the screw head is nearly flush with the face of the clip so it doesn't interfere with the molding once installed. These work great, and actually seal the holes while they protect the paint on the rocker. Because my moldings still have to be painted, I haven't installed them yet, but I see no issues in these doing a great job. They can also be removed and reused if needed. The screw are stainless steel, I chose the Allen head type because it was the widest head I found for this screw. Thanks goes to RT Specialties for the idea to try this.

size.

 

[Detroit Iron]

And the clips themselves.... they look new. Are they reproductions?

 

[Bob Jasinski]

And the clips themselves.... they look new. Are they reproductions?

No, they are the original clips, I washed them.

 

[Detroit Iron]

Holy crap. Proof right there the materials they used back then were of the highest quality.

I just noticed you live close to me. Super cool.

 

[Bob Jasinski]

Holy crap. Proof right there the materials they used back then were of the highest quality.

I just noticed you live close to me. Super cool.

I see you have a '64 Barracuda. Does it have the same rocker molding as the '65? Same clips?

 

[65 Dartman]

I thought the clips were supposed to pop into the mounting hole, then the molding pop over the clips?

 

[Dana67Dart]

Nice solution.

Is the head of the insert too thick to allow the clip to sit flush?

 

[Bob Jasinski]

I thought the clips were supposed to pop into the mounting hole, then the molding pop over the clips?

Nice solution.

Is the head of the insert too thick to allow the clip to sit flush?

The molding attaches the same way, but yes, the well nut flange is under the clip. Its rubber, and presses down nicely, I don't foresee an issue with the slight thickness of the compressed rubber with the molding attached. When I get the moldings painted and installed I'll post pictures.

 

[Dana67Dart]

, I don't foresee an issue with the slight thickness of the compressed rubber with the molding attached

I like the waterproofing aspect. Would a riv-nut sit more flush and with some sealer work?

I do like the removable aspect of the insert

 

[Bob Jasinski]

I like the waterproofing aspect. Would a riv-nut sit more flush and with some sealer work?

I do like the removable aspect of the insert

I thought of those and jack nuts, but the flange won't compress, and I couldn't find one that fit a 5/16" hole without enlarging it. Not only that, they become permanent once installed, and they are hard on the paint and can expose raw steel once installed.

 

[DC 340]

Hi Bob, that is a nice solution and I really like it. Very professional. Thank you for posting that!

 

[FISHYPETE]

Good work. Not sure if 66 is the same design but I found that wheel well trim hold rocker trim on. Had similar issue with my 66 and been this way since 1989

 

[Bob Jasinski]

I finished painting the rocker moldings and installed them yesterday. They fit perfect, snapped into place just fine.

 

[jeff alder]

Looking good Bob. You have done some really nice work on that car. The 4 speed tunnel and install was well done. Keep up the good work!

 

[Bob Jasinski]

Looking good Bob. You have done some really nice work on that car. The 4 speed tunnel and install was well done. Keep up the good work!

Thanks Jeff, its been a long road. Persistence pays off, keep your eyes on the prize.