<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by mstams:
What is the best way to grip the panels (both in #3 and #4) to make sure nothing snaps off when I start to pull? </div></BLOCKQUOTE>
Once you have fingers under the panel, brace the door so it doesn't move then pull the panel with short jerks using only your arms. Control the door, control your movement. You only need the fasteners to move an inch.
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Also, I've always thought that running some kind of trim or bead of sealer, caulk, or something would help tremendously on the plastic to metal source of the creaks. Do you have any opinion on whether this would help? </div></BLOCKQUOTE>
First, I'm not sure the problem is plastic on metal. Might be, might not be.
Take a look at the fasteners in pic 3 -- see the black "collars" around each fastener? That's part of what insulates the panel from the door. The insulators are about 1/4" deep and slide off the fasteners way too easy. If your door panels have ever been off (they may very well have been removed at the dealer before you bought the truck) and you're having lots of squeaks, I'd first check to ensure you have all the black insulators.
Check the two screws in pic two above. Are they tight?
Are the speaker screws tight?
One thing we don't know (although it might be suspected) is, is the noise coming from the door panel? It could be coming from inside the door. Perhaps go for a drive after you take off the first panel. Noise still there?
After verifying the source of the squeak (door v panel) and after verifying the insulators are in place and all fasteners and screws are well-seated then maybe, yes, one of the remedies you mentioned might be worth trying.
That said, personally, I'd be reluctant to start caulking, taping or otherwise sticking together parts that you may want to disassemble some day.
If your door didn't squeak when new, it stands to reason something is now loose and it seems feasible that what's now loose can be made snug again without adding caulk, etc.