What is the easiest way to replace a broken door handle, I already have all metal replacements. Should I use rivets like original, or can I thread the new handle to accept a button head bolt? Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated.


1992 LX conv. 5.0 Auto

 

the stock handle use a plastic piece to lift the lock...once mine was frozen and i tried to force it and broke it. i bought a new one with metal pieces. remove the door panel(s)...just drill out the rivets and use the bolts that come with the kit or buy bolts. that way is very easy...just a few minute job. the bolt don't make it any easier to break into the car

 

Yeah thats what happened to mine, they froze while I was at work and drivers door broke when I was leaving. I didn't get bolts with the new handles but I will get some. Thanks for your help.

 

After two inters in a row when the doors froze
and I broke the handles trying to force the
door open. I learned it is beter to get a pot
od hot water and pour it over thedoor seam.
Worked allready two weeks ago.

 

Here is how I did it...
Instead of standard hex head bolts I pickedup a pair of carriage bolts.
Being rounded, the carriage bolt heads will leave a cleaner look than a hex head.

I then used a small hand file to 'square' the bolt holes in the metal door handle.
Take your time, as you want the square shank of the carriage bolt to barely fit in the 'square' hole of the handle.

After that just use a nyloc nut and a loc washer to make sure the bolt doesn't start working itself loose.

I also painted the carriage bolt heads black on my GT. I like that it doesn't stand out, and I don't jam fingers on the bolt heads.

Good Luck,
jason

 

Thanks Jason, I like the sound of your idea, if it's not too cold I'll try it this weekend.