C1 Door handles

[Richard P.]

I'm trying to install new repro door handles on my '61 and am having trouble getting the latch linkage to fit in the retainer groove in the handle housing. It's almost as if the groove is not wide enough but it is the same width as the groove on the original handle. Has anyone else had this problem? How did you fix it? Thanks.

[Pat M.]

Re: C1 Door handles

I'll bump you back to the top Richard, someone should be able to help.

[Richard P.]

Re: C1 Door handles

Thanks Pat. I guess mid morning on a week day is not "prime time" for participation.

[John F.]

Re: C1 Door handles

Richard, I had one come apart in the door and had a heck of a time getting it back together in the door. I ended up taking the other door panel off to see what an installed one looked like. See Section F sheet 6.00 in the Assembly Manual. If I recall try putting it together on the bench first, then get a good light inside the door with the nimblest of fingers put it back together (like a ship in a bottle). Use a little tape to hold things in place. Getting things to stay in place and getting the cotter pin in is a PITA. Goog Luck!
John

[Richard P.]

Re: C1 Door handles

Thanks John. The bench assembly part is the part I'm talking about. The repro handle came with 2 parts being held in by the spring: a pot metal piece and a black sheet steel piece. With both these pieces in the groove, there isn't room for the piece that links to the latch. Now I'm wondering if the black sheet steel piece is just there to hold the assembly together for shipping and is to be replaced by the existing piece that links to the latch???