(more modifications)
| For several months we have been saying, "if we can just get the doors done, we can paint it!" Every component in the doors was shot. Regulators, latches, and windows rolled around like bb's in a barrel, and rattled accordingly. On not-so-hard right hand turns, the driver's door would swing open. So, some alterations were in order. |
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It was decided to remove the wind vent windows from the doors, and use a
bigger glass. As can be seen in the first picture, there is a
hefty curve in the door as it goes forward. Of course,
the window channel follows the same course. The window channels had to be straightened to
allow for the larger window glass. We cut a small groove on either side of the channel,
aligned it straight, and welded it back in place. This also had to be done at the top of
the doors.
Everything works fine, and looks neat. This was, perhaps, the
most challenging part of the project, but I'd do it again!
The original Stude latchs were removed. We made some cuts, and made the door jamb flat.
Striker bolts from a 88-94 model Chevy pick up were installed.
The orginal door latchs were removed, and the doors were reconstructed to house the Chevy pick up latches.
A place was made to install a modern electric controlled mirror. By eliminating the wind vents, we were able to mount the mirrors so that they are actually fuctional.
Welding in Dodge Intrepid door handle surround.
Now we can work on the inside.
The inner door panel is from a 88-94 model Chevy pick up, including the power windows and power door locks. The power door sylonoyd was moved from the front of the panel to the back.
*Picture lapse... draw a picture in your mind of priming, sanding, priming, blocking, priming, blocking, priming, and blocking.
The inside door handles and manual door locks are from an '86 Dodge Aries.
The power antenna is from a '94 Chrysler LHS.
The mirror is from a 90 Dodge Dynasty, the outside handles from a '94 Dodge Intrepid
Howdy, Ya'all! We hooked up a battery, and it all works!! Craig hand-crafted the lock and latch rods.
I know some of the true purists won't like it, but I consider these modifications to be improvements. Safety is an issue, and I like the blend of the new with the old. In fact, it's nice that Studebaker was so far ahead of everyone else, that the car compliments modern design. Other than paint color, grille trim color, the antenna, and door modifications, the body will be stock.
She's breathin' on 'er own! As loyal checker-inners may note, I missed (by several months) my goal of having the car done by fall. The leaves have gone again, but by the time they get back.....?
Those that REALLY pay attention will also note that these last pictures were taken one year to the day from when we began the construction project. A birthday, and, we can finally say,
"THE DOORS ARE DONE, THE DOORS ARE DONE!
So, we CELEBRATED!
We took the afternoon off, and went to the Oklahoma County Sheriff's Law Enforcement Driver's Training range for a little spin in some Legand cars.
These cars are powered by 1100cc Kawasaki motorcycle engines, rated at 150 HP, and have 5 speed transmissons. QUICK!
Craig liked it. A lot.
Room fer yer ass, and a gallon of gas.
I liked it a lot, too. Note the salesman's business card in my hand. Nah.
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