Has any one swapped the older 51 exterior door handles for the newer push botton handles from 52 or 53. Mine sag a little and the chrome is going bad. I would like to trade to the newer style but dont want to get into a new paint job. Should I just get new 51 handles or go for the pushbuttoms? Thanks Willard Green
I don't have an answer, but I've been thinking the same thing.... would like to know if it's practical. BTW, Classic Parts has the spring that holds up the handles to stop them from drooping, although it doesn't help with the chrome condition. ;o)
I would say you shoul get new handles and new springs to hold them up. Pushbutton type handles would require drilling through that paint and it would certainly cause it to flake, bubble and peel in time. Andy
the mounts are completely different. new springs and handles, clean and re lube the latches and all should be well.
Door Handles & Latches Are specifc , you'd need to swap out the entire door and the strikers too . Just swap the handles left for right and keep on truckin'
Speaking of door handles..... If you want to go for new handles, I've got a brand new set of '50 door handles that I bought before I decided to change my doors to '52 doors with pushbuttons and vent windows. I don't recall what they cost, but you can have them for $5 less than list plus shipping. PM me if you're interested.
Thanks guys. I was thinking abont buying new handles and trying to figure it out but it looks like the polish post by Yoderman may be the way to go
A trick to eliminate door handle sag is to pull the handle and clamp the square end of the shaft in a vise. Heat until you can put enough twist in the shaft to compensate for the sag. You have to hold it in line as you twist or it will bend off to one side or other but after it's reinstalled the sag will make it level and there's no spring to wear out. The drivers side will need twisted clockwise and passenger side c-clockwise. Many times it's not only the spring that's gotten weak but wear in the latch and shaft that also is a factor.
