81 - 83 door swap?

[burgandy81]

Hi All,

I have nice set of doors from an 83 (complete, no rust, power windows, all original vapor barrier, plugs and seals)

The plan is to replace the doors on my 81 (manufactured 80). These doors have rusted bottoms, no seats, damaged hardware on and on!

Over the years I have read casual references to the difficulty in swapping doors. Any suggestions from those with experience?

Cheers,

Jordan

[narfire]

I've done it with my 80. Both were transplanted from other cars. They work fine but do not line up quite the same as the originals. It is a definate two person job for the most of us and also don't be afraid to green tape the edges and at the fender/ door gap. There is adjustment in the hinges at the "A" post and on the door. Doable for sure.
Chris

[burgandy81]

Thanks Chris,

When you say they don't line up;

They don't line up until you adjust them with the adjustments on the A pillar.

Or, the just don't line up as well as the originals even with adjustment?

Would you think I should be able to do it with an assistant in a couple of hours? It is understood, trim and all other one man details will be taken care of at another time.

Cheers,

Jordan

[narfire]

Hey Jordan. Yes. I believe a couple of hours with one that can hold the doors weight for a number of minutes at a time is doable.
What I noticed with mine was the line/gap between ther door and the fender is not quite right. I suppose I could get it closer with the assistance with a fellow that has done these things before, but for a self job they are ok. I have a 81 shell with the original doors and they seem to close nicer than mine.

What I have found when rebuilding my car 7 years ago or so, was that I'm my own worst critic... I just keep telling myself I did it myself without any previous training, so That seems to work most of the time.

ps: going to best of Italy and France in North Van of fathers day?

[burgandy81]

Thanks Again Chris,

Yes I will be at the Fathers Day show. We should try to meet up if you are going.

Are you taking your car?

I may end up taking the mini-van full of kids this year!!

jordan