Install outer door handles

[msco123]

The painter removed my outer door handles. How are these installed? I have tried everything other than loosening the entire door latch assembly. That little push rod is just kicking my butt!!!

[73431Cutlass]

Are you having problems getting the rod into the handle tab? They are slotted and IIRC you have to move the handle around and of course slip the lock tab in as well.....

[msco123]

Yes, I am having problems with the rod. Do you have to disconnect it from the handle and then attach with the clip after placeing the handle in the door? My hands do not fit in the between the panels to do this.

[73431Cutlass]

When I pull my handles I pull the clip about half way off then slide the rod in and then pull the clip back up. It can be a pain in the arse.....

[msco123]

It appears to me that the rod still can only be attached while it is inside the door panel. What tools to you use to reach the rod and snap the clip in place?

[73431Cutlass]

I have used flat heads, picks and some other assorted tools. I would pull the clip and bend it so it would not latch again. Then I would bend it back and in place once the rod was in. I think I bolted the handle in and moved it up and down while putting the rod in place. It is tedious and aggravating for sure.

[msco123]

I bought 2 pairs of extra long needle nose pliers. My wife has little hands so maybe she can reach in and clip it while I hold it in place.

[msco123]

I am still toying with the idea of loosening the latch mechanism.

[mdkingsley]

First put somthing close by that you don't mind kicking the dogs*&^ out of. Attempt handle, kick and curse, attempt handle, kick and curse, you get the picture now. If this fails resort to a stack of somthing to throw. Attempt handle, kick, curse, throw, repeat x 2 then go inside and start again tommorrow.

[jrsixx]

I just did mine last night, and it was a pain in the butt. I used long needle nose pliers and lubed the end of the rod where it goes through the clip. If all else fails, see mdkingsleys answer.

[msco123]

First put somthing close by that you don't mind kicking the dogs*&^ out of. Attempt handle, kick and curse, attempt handle, kick and curse, you get the picture now. If this fails resort to a stack of somthing to throw. Attempt handle, kick, curse, throw, repeat x 2 then go inside and start again tommorrow.

Ha! You must have been watching me the last couple of days!!!!

[rickman]

I think I understand what you are referring to but if not, I apologize up front. It has been a while since I have worked on the handles but if memory serves me right, you can put the clip on the handle in place where it is suppose to be, and push the rod into place through the hole and into the clip. These clips are split on one side to hold the rod in place, and, to allow the rod to be pushed through the split in the clip, and the ends of the clip snaps back together to hold the rod.
If you want to see how to do this before trying it with the handle in the door, do it actually holding the handle in your hand. Then remove the clip/rod from the handle, put the clip back on, install the handle, and put the rod in place. Hope this helps...

[74hurstolds]

A telescoping magnet may help...

[Andy 73]

I don't have a clue how to do the handle job, but never let the little lady help, she will take credit for ever so long. Good luck hope you don't need touch up paint when done. Andy

[msco123]

I think I understand what you are referring to but if not, I apologize up front. It has been a while since I have worked on the handles but if memory serves me right, you can put the clip on the handle in place where it is suppose to be, and push the rod into place through the hole and into the clip. These clips are split on one side to hold the rod in place, and, to allow the rod to be pushed through the split in the clip, and the ends of the clip snaps back together to hold the rod.
If you want to see how to do this before trying it with the handle in the door, do it actually holding the handle in your hand. Then remove the clip/rod from the handle, put the clip back on, install the handle, and put the rod in place. Hope this helps...

Rickman,
You nailed it. Just leave the clip in place, attach the handle to the door, reach in through the top of the door(long handle pliers needed) and then just push the rod through the clip and it justs snaps into place. Doh!!!! Sure feel stupid. Took me about 5 minutes to do both doors today.
Thanks a million.

[rickman]

Glad it worked for ya. :cool: