Making new door hinges

We use piano hinge for some of our custom cabinet applications (mainly trick window seats), and the main problem with them is the lack of adjustability. You really have to nail their position the first time, otherwise it's extremely difficult to make them work.

The other problem with them is that if there is any kind of bend or warp in either of the two materials being hinged together, there will be some binding when they are opened or closed. In our applications, the materials are usually flexible enough to flex with the hinge and work, but in welding these to steel I'm not sure you'll have that same flexibility. In other words, these will have to be attached to the vehicle and door dead-nuts straight.

You ought to figure out a Delorean or Lambo opening system ;)
 
Capt. Nemo said:
We use piano hinge for some of our custom cabinet applications (mainly trick window seats), and the main problem with them is the lack of adjustability. You really have to nail their position the first time, otherwise it's extremely difficult to make them work.

The other problem with them is that if there is any kind of bend or warp in either of the two materials being hinged together, there will be some binding when they are opened or closed. In our applications, the materials are usually flexible enough to flex with the hinge and work, but in welding these to steel I'm not sure you'll have that same flexibility. In other words, these will have to be attached to the vehicle and door dead-nuts straight.

You ought to figure out a Delorean or Lambo opening system ;)

Hmmmm... good insight. I was planning on setting them up with the door closed (and fender removed) to be sure they lined up right. I usually go overkill on the materials, so it would be less likely to bend... but I do see the risk involved. If something did happen, it would be a huge PITA.
Thanks,
Billy
 
I'm doing a half door project and was real interested when I say this thread.

I am doing the hack mod on my stock hindges so the full doors can be lifted off when needed. Yet the extra set of doors I got did not come with the hindges.

The other day I took a set of hindges off the rear doors and went to the local machine shop. After talking to the guy I got quoted $500.00 for a set of 8 thus covering all doors. Needless to say I set out to the junk yard to get what I needed.
 
I am going to have to make something up myself to get the 97+ doors on the 87 jeep. I am thinking about making a drop in style like the wranglers have stock, just not on the outside of the jeep.
 
If you don't mind, why are you changing the style of hinges? If we knew the problem, someone may have a great idea for you.
 
Back
Top