How to Remove the Door Panel on a 2002 Dodge Ram With Manual Windows

The 2002 Dodge Ram pickup came with a variety of interior trim and accessory options. Power windows were available, but the standard configuration was manual windows operated by a handle. In these models, the door panel is held in place with a combination of screws on the outside and hooks on the inside of the panel. The removal procedure takes the window crank into account, but otherwise it is the same as for models with power windows.

Instructions

Park the Ram on a level surface and set the parking brake.

Use a hooked pick or window crank tool -- available at any parts store -- to remove the clip that holds the window handle onto the crank. You will have to reach between the door panel and handle to access the clip. When you have removed the clip, pull the handle from the window crank. Slide the clip back into the groove on the handle.

Raise the door handle and remove the screw that holds it to the door latch mechanism with a T-40 Torx screwdriver. Remove the handle.

Remove the four Philips screws from the door panel. Two screws are on the bottom of the panel, one screw at the upper-front near the mirror, and one behind the door handle's location before it was removed.

Lift up on the door panel to disengage its hooks from the holes in the door. Remove the panel from the door.

Place the door panel against the door and line up all of the clips on the rear of the door trim panel with the holes in the doorframe. Push down on the panel so the clips engage the holes.

Install the door handle onto its mechanism and tighten its screw with a T-40 Torx screwdriver. Tighten the four remaining door trim panel screws.

Line the window crank up with the window regulator shaft and press the crank onto the regulator shaft -- the clip on the rear of the crank opens, then seats in its groove on the regulator shaft automatically as you push the crank.