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Old 11-27-2013, 05:32 PM   #1
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I have a stiffy... hinge that is!

I have a real stiff hinge on the main side door. Been lubing the heck out of it, but no better. Any suggestions? Rather not have to buy a new one... thanks

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Old 11-27-2013, 07:58 PM   #2
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Re: I have a stiffy... hinge that is!

I had the same problem. I drilled a 1/8" hole in the inside of the center part of the hinge and squirted pbblaster and then white lithium grease. With good results! For a while...

The best way to fix the hinge problem (which is clearly a design flaw) is to replace the flawed design with the newer hinge Ford E series design which eliminates the center part of the hinge altogether.

Edit: Yes, good idea to check the limiter below. But for us salt road Winter drivers, my personal experience in lubing both the limiter and the hinges, is that it is the hinge that is binding. And the Ford redesign constitutes evidence of the flaw in the original design. I plan to change mine out over time, but I have bigger fish to fry now.
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Old 11-27-2013, 08:17 PM   #3
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Re: I have a stiffy... hinge that is!

Good chance the problem is not the hinge but the limiter. Disconect it and the swing the door - that will tell you for sure.
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Old 11-28-2013, 05:48 AM   #4
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Re: I have a stiffy... hinge that is!

Quote:
Originally Posted by BajaSportsmobile
Good chance the problem is not the hinge but the limiter. Disconect it and the swing the door - that will tell you for sure.
+1 on that suggestion!

Also add the limiter is available separately if I'm reading my parts break down correctly. Also should it come to rehabbing a hinge Dorman makes a pin kit too.

Its also possible to tour a local self-serve salvage yard and find a few in great working condition.

Honestly though despite their new cost I'd opt for a new one---saves all that hassle.
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Old 12-02-2013, 12:41 AM   #5
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Re: I have a stiffy... hinge that is!

$5 says it is the hinge. I just replaced one of mine.
I tried all kinds of drilling, soaking, trying to air hammer out the hinge pin, no go.

I picked a couple up new ones cheap at Green Sales.

Still need to get it painted to match the van.

Easy way to tell is watch the B pillar flex as you move the door, that tells you the hinge is binding.
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