A tech tip is written but Peggy does not have it yet.
The side door handles use a different bezel and the stem is 3/8" longer than the rear handle. I have modified several of them. I bought a new handle for the side and cut 3/8" off the stem.
Once you take the roll pin out of the side door handlea and take the retaining spring and bezel off... take it to the bench grinder and grind the FLAT sides of it back 3/8" or a little more won't hurt. Once you cut it off measure back 1 1/4" and drill a 3/32" hole. Replace the correct bezel and springs and use a 3/32" roll pin (split pin) that is 5/8" long.
Yes, MOST rear door handles will drag the door when you pull down on it. To avoid this and "put it to rest" I used my air cut off tool and cut 1/4" off the back side (end) of the handle. I wrapped a piece of tape around it thinking that if the edge was a little rough I'd just paint it with chrome spray paint as its not noticeable. It turned out that if you get a good smooth start and give the cutting wheel time to cut it will not do damage to the chrome edge that is left. Then I used the Chrome spray paint to spray the very end where I cut it. It looks nice and you can't see it anyway. Its comfort to know I don't have to worry about the door handle scrapping/scratching the paint.
I wrote a tech tip and have not got around to submitting it. I had sent it to Bowtietim to read over and maybe help him in some way. I'm glad I did. Just today he sent me a copy where he had put the pictures with my instructions and will send to Peggy. If he reads this he may post a link to what he has? Thanks for doing what you did Tim.
Any specific questins you can email me and put in the subject line "rear door handle".
Hope this helps someone.
Oh, I have not found anyone that manufacturers a new rear door bezel. I do have some extra's but they all need re-chromed.
EDIT: Don, I sent you an Email with the info and pictures. Hope it helps.
Last edited by Achipmunk; 11/04/2011 4:21 AM.
