Originally Posted by
EXDAC
Does NTSB say these pictures show cracks in the door frame? If not, is it possible the marked cracks are gaps between the door seal and the door seal retainer?
Are you sure that's a seal retainer? I have to admit I've stared at that thing that goes up over the door cutout for a few hours and my best guess is it provides attachment points for interior panels on the operational door installation. I think the seal is quite a small bonded-on thing that seems to be missing, although you can see it in some pictures of the bottom of the cutout.
Edit: It actually makes sense, that "seal" at the top actually fills the 3-4" gap at the top of the door. It must be quite a beefy thing which explains that big retainer structure.