DIY Door Replacement: Breathing New Life into a 1985 Buick Regal
Hanging doors on a car isn’t everyone’s favorite automotive task, especially when dealing with the hefty G-body doors of a classic Buick. My 1985 Buick Regal was in desperate need of a door transplant. The original driver’s side door was worn out, rusty, and sporting a broken window – a souvenir from our Utah road trip. It was time for an upgrade.
The Quest for a “Rust-Free” Door
I sourced a replacement door from a “reputable” G-body parts supplier. They promised a clean, rust-free door, but reality didn’t quite match the description. Despite its imperfections, the new door was loaded with all the necessary components to restore my Regal to its former glory.
Hinge Dilemma: Rebuild or Replace?
G-body door hinges can be rebuilt by replacing the bushings and pins. I had previously done this, but even the rebuilt hinges wore out. This time, I opted for brand new Goodmark door hinges.
Pro Tip: Goodmark hinges (P/N# GMK4035401781L and GMK4035401782 for the driver’s side) offer superior quality compared to OPGI or generic Amazon options. Remember, the lower hinge is interchangeable, but upper hinges are side-specific.
The Door Swap Process
Replacing a car door doesn’t require specialized tools, but it’s definitely a two-person job. Here’s how we tackled it:
- Recruited my wife as an extra set of hands
- Removed the old door
- Used a floor jack to lift the new door into place
- Carefully aligned and secured the new door
Fine-Tuning for the Perfect Fit
After installation, I spent considerable time adjusting both the door and the striker. The result? A properly closing door with acceptable panel gaps. It’s not concours-level perfect, but it’s a significant improvement that has my Regal road-ready once again.
Wrapping Up
While door replacement might not be the most glamorous automotive project, it’s a rewarding one. This DIY job has breathed new life into my 1985 Buick Regal, improving both its functionality and appearance. Until it’s time for a complete body restoration, this door upgrade will serve its purpose well.
Remember, whether you’re working on a classic Buick or any other vintage car, patience and attention to detail are key. Happy wrenching!
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