Door alignment issues!

Topic: Door alignment issues! (Read 1042 times) previous topic - next topic

Door alignment issues!

October 09, 2007, 09:19:42 PM

I got two replacement doors ( old doors fell victem to the typical rust) for my 88 tcoupe project and have also replaced the striker and the hinge pins and bushings. Ok, here is my problem. I cant seem to get the doors lined up. I have two problems at least.

One. If i set the striker so that the door is flush with the body when closed, the door is not tight. In other words, i can push the door closed further, almost 1/4"! Needless to say if i adjust the striker to latch the door closed tightly, the door is no longer flush with the body. Is this because my door weather stripping is saged out?

Two. I adjusted the striker vertically so that when closed the door is gapped properly with the rocker. However when i open the door it drops about 1/4". Enough for the top corner part of the door to contact the door jam. Ive tried adjusting the hinges, but im not getting anywhere with it. This adjustment has been frustrating me to no end.

Im sure ive seen a how to on doors on here before, but i cant seem to find it anywhere. Right now im open to any suggestions. Thanks a bunch everyone!:birdsmily:

Door alignment issues!

Reply #1 – October 10, 2007, 07:06:17 AM

ill post some pictures later this evening.

Door alignment issues!

Reply #2 – October 10, 2007, 07:53:05 AM

I would venture to say that your hinge bushings are worn out, which causes the drop of the door. How many miles are on the car?

Door alignment issues!

Reply #3 – October 10, 2007, 08:17:15 AM

You're on your way to getting it right, but about half way there. Its all in the hinges regarding number 2. you have to tighten the hinge bolts with the door above the striker (someone holding it) and when they let go the weight of the door will align it. You may have to do it a couple times

Door alignment issues!

Reply #4 – October 10, 2007, 03:07:35 PM

I know Lisle tools makes a tool to align the door and striker. I've seen pics but never used one. Wonder if that would help you?

Door alignment issues!

Reply #5 – October 10, 2007, 10:29:27 PM

Ok, turns out i just needed to step back from the project for a bit and come at it from a fresh perspective. The doors are all lined up, next comes fenders, then bumper cover and header, then hood...then i can drive it...wooh whooo! Thanks everyone!