1965 Deck Hinge

[Ernest C.]

I removed the rear deck hinge in order to install a new spring in the hinge. I now find it impossible to get to the outboard bolt on top with the spring installed. I don't think I could install the spring while the hinge is still mounted in the car. Has anyone had any experience mounting the hinge with the spring already installed?
Thanks for any advice.

[Peter J.]

Re: 1965 Deck Hinge

Just curious Ernest, are you using the tool from Long Island Corvette to hold the spring?

[Ernest C.]

Re: 1965 Deck Hinge

No, I followed the 63 shop manual, and mounted the spring with no problem. The problem I'm having is with the spring mounted there is no room behind the hinge to get the outside bolt started.

[John L.]

Re: 1965 Deck Hinge

Ernest:
Its difficult but possible to do. Try cleaning the threads before and running to bolt in to make sure it starts easy. Once you place the assembly in position start this bolt first. try a using a maggnet inside the socket. alternative is what some are suggesting, i.e. install without the spring... but i don't think that will help all that much.

[Joel T.]

Re: 1965 Deck Hinge

Ernest,

I did this on my 1965. Use the tool to keep the spring stretched while you reinstall the hinge. It is a PITA but it can be done. I have the tool somewhere in the garage if you need it..

Joel

[Joel T.]

Re: 1965 Deck Hinge

Ernest,

More thoughts.. With the spring installed but not stretched you may have some clearance issues. If you use the tool you should be able to remove the stretched spring to get the clearance you need. Once the bolts are in place the stretched spring can be reinstalled...

I did mine over a year ago.. and it is coming back to me, slowly!

Joel

[Peter J.]

Re: 1965 Deck Hinge

If Joel can't find his spring tool, I ran across mine in the shop the other day and you are welcome to borrow it as well. Pretty simple but handy tool
Pete

[Ernest C.]

Re: 1965 Deck Hinge

I would appreciate it if I could borrow from one of you. I live in Pa, I'm not sure who might be closer.
Thanks again
Ernie

[Joel T.]

Re: 1965 Deck Hinge

I would appreciate it if I could borrow from one of you. I live in Pa, I'm not sure who might be closer.
Thanks again
Ernie

Ernie,

PM sent, Joel

[Harry S.]

Re: 1965 Deck Hinge

Ernest, Unless a 65 is very different than a 63, I don't understand why your having a problem. When I reinstalled both hinges, with springs installed, in my 63 everything aligned.

Is there another problem with the threads in the nut-plate? Can you get the bolts installed without the hinge as a test?

[Ernest C.]

Re: 1965 Deck Hinge

Yes I actually instaled the bolts with no problem. When I tried to install the hinge, I cannot get my hand on the outside bolt because there is no room with the spring installed in the hinge.
Ernie

[Michael G.]

Re: 1965 Deck Hinge

Ernest, Unless a 65 is very different than a 63, I don't understand why your having a problem. When I reinstalled both hinges, with springs installed, in my 63 everything aligned.

Is there another problem with the threads in the nut-plate? Can you get the bolts installed without the hinge as a test?

Like Harry installed my hinges with springs installed on my '66 with no issues. Challenging to install outboard bolts but very doable.....no special tools.

[Ernest C.]

Re: 1965 Deck Hinge

I want to thank everyone for their suggestions. After reading all of them I decided I was going to go out and get this DONE. Four hours later 2 bolts in.
Thanks to all.
Ernie