Re: Driver Door doesn't close properly

Posted by Rusty O\'Toole On 2009/6/25 21:47:02

Yes this is a very common job around the body shop.

This lesson will be generic since I have not done a Packard door. It is typical of American cars from the 40s through the 80s.

To test a door have it barely open and try to lift it up and down. If you feel any movement the hinges need to be rebushed and new pins put in.

(You have already done this)

To replace the pins and bushings you need to take the hinges off. This usually involves taking off the door. In the case of a door with lots of wiring for power windows etc. it is possible to take off the hinges one at a time but you have to be careful to support the door.

Mark the position of the hinge by scratching around it with an awl.

With the hinges off you can assess the damage. Usually all that is necessary is to take out the pins and bushings and replace them.

GM pins and bushings will fit most cars. They make a special bushing with serrations on the outside. It will fit tight in holes that are worn oval. You can get the pins and bushings at any parts store.

Lube the pins with white grease. In the case of oilite bushings soak them in oil overnight.

Put the hinges back on and line them up according to the marks you made. This will make an approximate fit.

To do the final fitting remove the latch pin. The door must be able to close with no latch if you are to see how to adjust it properly.

First, get the door fitting in the hole with an even gap all the way around. This means, loosen the bolts that hold the hinge to the body so you can lift the door up or down and move it around. If you want to lift up and forward, loosen the top hinge. To lift up and back, the bottom hinge. You will need to eyeball the door and think about it for a minute to get it to go where you want. It can take several attempts to get it perfect.

Remember the fender can be moved if necessary so if it is impossible to get a good fit all the way around, fit the door to the body and adjust the fender later.

With the door fitting nicely in the hole look to see if it is in or out at the top or bottom. This can be adjusted by loosening the bolts on the door and moving the door in or out.

Now you should have the door fitting perfectly but no latch. So take the latch pin and fit it in barely tight. Shut the door almost closed and peek in the crack. Can you see how the latch is hitting the pin? Move the pin up or down so it hits perfect and tighten it down. Now try closing the door. It should latch perfect but with the door sticking out from the body a little. Because you put the pin towards the outside.

Now how much does the door need to go in? Adjust the pin inwards that much.

The door should now fit perfect and latch with a gentle push.

I know this sounds like a lot of work but it is the only way to get a perfect fit. There are hit and miss methods but they never seem to result in a good fit. Unless you fool around all day and take longer than if you did it right.