Well, I will assume the lack of replies means my original post was posing a fairly obvious or unnecessary question, i.e. 'of course you can remove the striker if it is causing problems'.
Just replying to my own question in case it helps anyone traveling a similar path in the future.
I removed the striker and the door will now shut but the rear gap was tight. I pulled the pillar forward 1/4" and got a perfect gap at the rear of the door. I personally think the rear gap higher up is a little large but I realize these trucks were exactly built with a Mercedes attention to detail when it came to panel gaps. The gap on top of the door is fine so it isn't that the door has sagged lower. I know they are wedge shaped and the upper rear gap would be large if the door was 1/4" too low in the aperture.
Next step, I will be pulling the pillar forward that 1/4" and tacking it to some bracing, ensuring that door gap remains perfect. I can then remove the door and move my attention to the rocker panel knowing that it will connect to the pillar in the right place. Once the rocker panel is in place I will be able to breathe easy knowing the door opening is OK and I can get the floor panel and cowl panels done...and then start the passenger side all over again! Such fun.
Anyway, onward and upwards.
Paul
Last edited by paul65; 01/22/2019 9:31 PM.
