I used brake cleaner to clean all the surfaces when I did this mod a while back. No paint stripping encountered. 

That strip you mention can benefit from cleaning with some vinyl cleaner. It has probably shrunk, soften it with a heat gun and gently pull it back to length.

The metal track cover can be a real bear to remove if it hasn't been removed before.

http://shufti.wordpress.com/2012/08/23/vanagon-sliding-door-quietening-hack/

alistair

On 2013-07-28, at 9:09 PM, MICHAEL H wrote:

> good point, Tom. I meant to mention that weather strip/grommet across the top of that panel, Jack. this is a prime candidate for reconditioning , much like the window scrapers in the front doors. you might also wash and wax that channel before replacing the panel.    mike
> 
> 
> ________________________________
> From: Tom Boldway <jboldway@HOTMAIL.COM>
> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM 
> Sent: Sunday, July 28, 2013 11:39 PM
> Subject: Re: UHMW tape for sliding door track
> 
> 
> Acetone works extremely well for cleaning things. However, keep it away from paint! Brake fluid is even worse for paint. When you remove the slider cover make sure you tap UP on the bottom of the panel to free it. Don't pull out or such - get a piece of wood or such and hammer straight up on the ends of the panel alternating from front to rear a bit at a time (naturally after you removed the two screws).
> 
> Tom