63 Avanti door hinge retention spring

[Guest Larry Delazzer]

When I bought my 63 Avanti the spring for the door retention arm on the hinge (I guess that's what they call it) was missing. After doing some research it sounded like it was the trickiest job on the planet. I determined there had to be an easier way - here it is. I picked up an expansion spring at the local hardware store 1 13/16" X 15/32" which was about 3/16" shy of popping over the notch in the retention arm. Clamped the spring in my vise, extended it enough to pop 3 - 1/4" flat washers in-between the coils, the spring was now extended enough to slip into place quit easily over the notches, removed the washers and the spring tightened up perfectly. Works great, 5 minutes, done deal. Hope this helps someone else who may be dreading this job.

Larry

[lschuc]

Thanks for your tip!! I may use it in a future magazine!

[Guest Larry Delazzer]

Thanks for your tip!! I may use it in a future magazine!

That would be great, it's nice to share information like that. I've picked up some great tips that were in the Avanti magazine and it would be nice to return the favor.

[Devildog]

Thanks, just did the spring install using washer spacers. To add a simple hint...when pulled washers out they fell down and could not reach the loose washers. Used SS washers so magnet would not collect them, sucked them out with shop vacuum.

Thanks again

Joe

[warren55]

I've replaced two of them using a very stout zip tie to extend the length of the spring. It gives you something to get a hold of, and then you can easily cut the zip tie when you're done. A screwdriver works as a lever to get it on the other ear. I'll try to attach a link to some pictures. The washer idea is a good one too, though!

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0HZEGR_UhsaQWlPVk5TX1RGTWM/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0HZEGR_UhsaRnZ0cUwxUHhEaGc/view?usp=sharing

[avantifred]

thanks for the tip on the insertion of the 3 washers......it works! I simply used a long needle nose to hook the spring over the stud. The trick is to hook the outside spring loop over the pin!

Thanks