Has anyone else run into the door hinges/pins seizing up on a Chevy/GMC van? Apparently this was a problem (hinge design trapped water and dirt) and promoted everything to rust solid. I'm curious to know what you did to solve the problem.
The hinges were an issue in 2010 when I bought the van but I had more time and energy to spray them with PB Blaster and work them loose. Now I'm the father of a 2 year old with less sleep, time, and patience than I had 6 years ago, so I think it is time to fix them them. They are nearly seized again and cause the hinges to flex, causing alignment/closing problems.
I bought stainless steel, greasable replacement pins a long time ago but never got the old pins out. I found this puller tool on Ebay with associated Youtube video:
Automotive Door Hinge Pin Puller Remover Tool Chevy Astro and Safari Vans | eBay
I'm not sure if this will work on the Express/Savana vans (sent a note to the seller). I own and tried an Eastwood hinge pin puller but I think the design is too large and flexes too much; I was never successful so either my pins are really stuck, I did it wrong, or the tool has too much flex.
The other option is suck up the cost and go to a body shop and have them press out the pins.
I'd be interested in hearing you experience!
Thanks!