Installing pin in window crank

[mcoomey]

Does anyone have any suggestions on how to install the pin in the window crank on a '30 Coupe?

I've been at it for a couple hours now and just can't compress the door panel and escutcheon plate enough to push the pin in. I don't have the slotted shaft that expands with the setscrew so I must use the pin. I have the spring positioned with the larger diameter toward the upholstery panel which seems to give me the best chance, but it still is a bit shy of exposing the hole for the pin.

 

[Tacoma Bob]

I don't know how to post pictures but I fashioned a block of wood. 3/4 inch thick by about 2 inches x 4.5 inches. I cut a notch in it just wide enough to push the escutcheon in allowing you to drop the pin in.

 

[mcoomey]

Thanks for the reply, Tacoma Bob. I'm not sure I can picture exactly what you mean, but if I understand it sounds like the notch is wide enough to clear the crank and still push on the escutcheon. I'll fashion something similar and give it a try. Thanks again!

 

[katy]

Does the pin go in OK w/out the spring and escutcheon?

 

[Joop]

Pictures



…

 

[Y-Blockhead]

The repro springs are stronger and harder to compress than the originals. I has to "trim" my springs so I could push the door panel in far enough.

MAC's used to carry a tool for the door handle pin.

I'm a big fan of homemade tools. I am going to fab up a "Door Handle Pin Putter Inner Tool" like Joop's for future use.

 

[Cape Codder]

Y-BlockheadI don't know if what you wind up making will really work BUT SURE LIKE THE NAME!!!!!!

 

[Tacoma Bob]

Joop nailed it with his pic. Mine is very much like the one he has pictured.

 

[mcoomey]

Thanks, everyone, for the replies and photos. The pin fit fine without the escutcheon, so that wasn't the problem. I just couldn't compress it enough to get access to the hole. I do have the repro spring, so perhaps that was adding to the problem.

I didn't get the latest posts in time to try making a tool or modifying the spring and ended up drilling a small hole in the escutcheon. I have it facing the dash, so it's not really visible unless you go looking for it. If it's a problem in the future I'll replace it and try again with these suggestions.

Thanks, again! This forum is wonderful!

 

[mcgarrett]

This is a tool designed for the job. I've never used one, but had seen them advertised. You use your body weight to press the the door panel inward leaving your hands free to remove the pin.

https://bobdrake.com/products/door-handle-window-crank-tool?_pos=3&_sid=87e647bae&_ss=r

 

[JayJay]

I’ve used one hand pushing the escutcheon, one hand pushing the door against it, and a third hand (my bride) to insert the pin.