How do you get to the outside door handle?

[jcarle]

Hello,
My 79 Vette's outside door handle quit working. I took the panel off and was able to see that the reason is that the clip that holds the rod to the outside handle broke.

Now, I have the rod pushing through the hole in the door handle. I tried to pull it out, but I can't. It is twisted and pushed up against the lock. How do you get to the outside handle to take it out. I have a Chiltons, and it doesn't help at all (imagine that).

Or is there a better way to put a new clip on the rod?

Thanks
Jon

 

[69MyWay]

Jon,

There is no easy way. You have to really fuss with it to get it right.

There are only two nuts holding the door handle in after the rod comes loose. They are either 7/16" or 1/2" hex head nuts. A combo of tools and hand configurations will yield the results you are after.

Call Mid America, Paragon, etc. and they can sell you a new clip kit for the door handle/lock rods to get that back in tip top order.

 

[ssvett]

Also it helps to remove the three screws that hold the latch assembly, then let the latch fall as far as it will without removeing any linkages. This will give you a little more room to get to the back nut. Also, by just dropping it you don't have to readjust anything, just bring it back up, alighn the holes and it's done.........Steve

 

[jcarle]

Thanks I finally got it out.

Putting it back in when I get the new parts may be another story.

Jon

 

[rpounds]

For replacing the clips, get a set of doctor's forceps. They will hold the clips securely and they extend far enough to reach into those hard-to-reach places. Actually, get two sets. That way you can also hold the rod in place with one while you place the clip with the other.

Ron