Hi Listers
I recently had a paint job done on my 4A. The repairer removed the RH door for
some panel work. I imagine he retained the hinges at the A post location and
only removed the door from the hinge at the door.
When I collected the car there was a major gap (13mm) at the top rear of the
door (where the door catch is located). I returned the car the repairer but
their fix wasnt much better so I am seeking some hints on how to realign the
door.
I can see that placing packing behind the appropriate hinge where it is
attached to the door could move the alignment forward or back. Also, adjusting
the hinge mounts at the A post may be necessary to lift or drop the door.
My concern is the sequence in which to attack each possible solution and the
impact each would have on the alignment. It would seem logical to do the
vertical adjustment first as this is more accessible when the door is closed
and in the preferred position to tighten the bolts, but I cant see that action
moving the top of the door back sufficiently to fill the gap. I imaging some
form of packing would be required under the door to take the weight until the
bolts can be tightened. Would this action also have the effect of moving the
door forward or back to fill (even) a gap?
After loosening the hinges at the door, I see a problem in how to retain the
correct adjustment while tightening. After checking the fit, the door would
have to be opened to tighten the bolts, thus potentially loosing the fit. I
guess it would have to be trial and error until a suitable fit is
accomplished while the door is open and supported. I know ultimately that the
door has to fit to the striker dovetail and door restraint, but would it assist
the process to remove these fittings during gap adjustment?
Any clues out there to make this job simpler?
Paul Hingston
1965 TR4A
Orange, NSW, AUS
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