2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Door droop

[AC]

The driver door on my 98. 5 has started to droop a little. It now hits the top of the opening when closed. When I open the door slowly from the outside I can see it drops about a quarter inch. It's not big problem yet but it's headed in that direction.

My manual seems to indicate that the door is adjustable but I have been unable to make it move yet. Their are two bolts that are accesible and one that isn't. Would it be better to try and replace the hinge pins or to take it to a body shop and have them adjust the door?

 

[ToolManTimTaylor]

SNOWMAN is the man to talk to! ..... Oh Mr SNOW!

 

[Snow man]

AC, this is a common problem on the CTD,it happens to a lot of the trucks. Ive seen a 99 1500 that was bad,the drivers door actually cracked,and had to be replaced,when you slam the door when its out of adjustment,it fatigues the door plate over time,and causes it to break off eventually. First check your pins and bushings,by pulling up on the open door,if you have any play,they should be replaced. If yours are good,or even slightly worn,try adjusting them. I adjusted mine from the lower hinge only,but mine wasnt out as far as yours is now. I was able to remove the interior kick panels ,and from the outside with the door open you can slip a open end/box wrench,( I love my gearwrenches here)I think its a 13mm, and loosen the 2 outer bolts up,then open the door,and carefully loosen the one on the inside,it helps to have a friend hold up on the door a little for you at this point,tug up slightly,raise the door a hair and snug the inside bolt up,then carefully close the door,not all the way,until you know it wont hit the top,bottom or quad door. It took me 3 tries to get mine perfect. With new bushings,. you can usually mount the door loosely,shut it carefully,then tighten the hinges,and its usually right on,if not,its real close,and wont take much more to get it perfect. it should take you about 15-20 minutes a side if you can get by with a lower hinge only adjustment,if the upper needs to be moved,or you need pins/bushings its going to be a long day,I didnt have to do it it though. My door gaps lined up perfect,no wind leaks,and shuts great,give it a shot.

 

[AC]

Thanks Snow Man!

I just got in from a weekend get away but will give that a shot in the morning. I tried the lower hinge adjustment the first time but didn't loosen the inner bolt. I'll let you know tomorrow how it went.

AC

 

[Shovelhead]

Another preventive measure is to not let the door swing all the way to the stop on it's own when opening.

The door has alot of weight and momentum and could damage the hinges and suppoprting framework over time.

 

[Oxjockey]

I've thought that the shut down vibrations would wreak havoc on the pins & bushings if the door was open often.



Bryan

 

[AC]

Success!



It worked just like you said Snow Man. I was done so fast it didn't seem right to put my tools away. I kept standing there thinking I must have forgot something. Thanks again. It's sure nice to have advice I can really use! AC

 

[Snow man]

Good deal AC,Im glad it worked for you!