1972 door spring replacement

[Kurt G.]

Does anyone out there have advise on replacing the driver side door spring without removing the door? The spring on mine will hold the door open, wide open, but on a slight incline the mid-open position is a little sloppy. Thanks.

[Terry M.]

Re: 1972 door spring replacement

I am told it can be done, and have seen photos in a long ago Vette Vues, but I thankfully have no personal experience.

[Harmon C.]

Re: 1972 door spring replacement

With a special tool sold by vendors it can be done. It's not easy on the first one you install. After the learning curve it's a five minute job.

[Bob D.]

Re: 1972 door spring replacement

Kurt

I have instructions from a vendor on how to replace the spring. I'll make a copy and ship it to you. I'll check to see if I can scan it also and email to you.

[Anthony M.]

Re: 1972 door spring replacement

Corvette magazine has some good instructions posted online and this is one that applies:

http://www.corvettemagazine.com/component/content/article/39-body/140-corvette-door-hinge-spring-and-outside-handle-spring-replacement.html

The tool that is offered by most vendors makes the job a lot easier and looks like it can be made at home rather easily. I went ahead and bought one after I spend a whole lot of time trying to insall with a regular screwdriver.
Here is what it looks like:

http://www.mamotorworks.com/corvette-c3-door-spring-1-164-1683.html

Good luck this is a rather easy job and will possibly save damage to the door skin from opening too far.

[Paul Y.]

Re: 1972 door spring replacement

When positioned properly, it actually slips in surprisingly easy.

[Jim D.]

Re: 1972 door spring replacement

I've done several of them. With the correct tool (large bent screwdriver) it takes only a few minutes to install one.

[Lawrence M.]

Re: 1972 door spring replacement

Kurt, as others have said the tool makes replacement much easier. I painted mine body color before installing it. Also I wraped the tool and all places the tool could possibly contact in double thickness of duck tape. No scratches or chips and you can't tell it's been replaced. The original actually broke in half necessitating replacement.

Larry

[Robert S.]

Re: 1972 door spring replacement

I have done this once. Seemed really easy at the time. Used a drum brake adjustment tool and it was obvious what needed to be done.