Door Handle Replacement C3

[Rob H.]

Hey there-

The driver's side exterior door handle of my '69 L36 is shot and I need to replace it (I tried the chrome quick-fix clip and it didn't work). In order to remove the door handle retaining spring the manual says I need tool J-7797. Does anyone know where I can purchase one?

Thanks in advance-

Rob

[Joe L.]

Re: Door Handle Replacement C3

Rob-----

Tool J-7797 is not directly involved in removal of the outside door handle. Its function is to remove the clip which retains the inner door lock knob and the window crank (if applicable). It is necessary to remove these items so that the door panel can be removed, providing access to remove the outer handle.

The bad news is that tool J-7797 is long-since discontinued. The good news is that equivalent aftermarket tools are easily available. Most good auto parts stores will carry them and they are very inexpensive. These tools have very wide applicability.

[Rob H.]

Re: Door Handle Replacement C3

Hey Joe-

Thanks for the advice. (I was trying to make a long story short -- but you summed it up way better than I could have). My local Chief Auto didn't have one or anything similar (no surprise there I guess), but I will check out some others.

Rob

[Harmon C.]

Re: Door Handle Replacement C3

Rob
The C-clip can be removed with a thin screwdriver or metal if you can get enough room to see the clip just push one side off. Some of the cheap tools don't work very good for me. Take your time as handle replacement is a task that will take more than a few hours the first time you do the job. Be carefull to keep the rods the same length and the clips back on the same way you take them off.
Lyle

[Rob H.]

Re: Door Handle Replacement C3

Lyle-

Thanks, I'll give that a try. Funny, it's always the jobs you think will be simple, that tend to frustrate. Patience is truly a virtue.

Best,
Rob

[John H.]

Re: Door Handle Replacement C3

Here's what the knob/crank "omega-clip" removal tool looks like - any decent auto parts store has them for cheap. I use a U-shaped shim between the tool and the door trim panel made from the plastic lid on a coffee can to avoid scuffing the trim panel.

[Rob H.]

Re: Door Handle Replacement C3

John-

Much thanks for the pic -- and good idea on the protective shim.

Rob