What are your thoughts on reproduction door shells. - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

cedorris · 06-28-2010, 11:57 PM

I am considering a set of reproduction doors for my 72. The original doors are rusted inside and out after 3 decades of water seepage.

What are your thoughts and experiences on reproduction door shells? How about restoring the originals? How would I prep them and eliminate all the rust on the inside?

**70cst** · 06-29-2010, 12:12 AM

If the doors are both toast...maybe a good set of used doors might be a better option. Just a thought.

msgross · 06-29-2010, 12:20 AM

I've never heard good things about aftermarket doors or tailgates...

junkyardjohn · 06-29-2010, 12:40 AM

To me?? I'd rather have one solid set of oem doors than 73 sets of repops. But thats just my opinion.

john

67-72trucks · 06-29-2010, 12:42 AM

Try to find original Gm Metal. I have installed and painted a few tail gate from Lmc with out any problems.

pat 70/71 · 06-29-2010, 12:43 AM

x2 find used doors you will be $$$ ahead in the long run cheers, Pat

VA72C10 · 06-29-2010, 12:43 AM

I'll add another resounding vote for nice originals. You'll pay 6-800 for reproduction doors that don't fit without a lot of work when you can find really nice originals for the same and sometimes much cheaper. Heck, find a rust free truck from AZ for 500-1000 ship it to you for another 1000 and use the doors and part out the rest of the parts

67ChevyRedneck · 06-29-2010, 01:02 AM

NO NO NO and NO! Repair a set of originals. You should be able to find a decent used set in OK???

cedorris · 06-29-2010, 02:08 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 67ChevyRedneck

NO NO NO and NO! Repair a set of originals. You should be able to find a decent used set in OK???

The trouble isn't finding good doors, but rather finding good 1972 doors with the correct bolt hole under the window wing. I want it to look correct for the year. Has anyone ever tried transplanting that dimple?

**bigsnookmaster** · 06-29-2010, 06:19 AM

JUNK! Find some originals. Transplanting the dimple should be no problem if you have some fab experience. Good luck.

**WIDESIDE72** · 06-29-2010, 10:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by msgross

i've never heard good things about aftermarket doors or tailgates...

x2

cedorris · 06-29-2010, 02:37 PM

So no one likes the reproduction door shells. Thanks for saving me some time and what would definitely be some trouble.

Looks like I'm on the hunt for some rust free doors.

**68jewel** · 06-29-2010, 02:56 PM

Try ebay and craigslist. I've seen really nice doors on ebay. No joking!! At least as far as a pic is concerned they are really nice pics.

cedorris · 06-29-2010, 02:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 68jewel

Try ebay and craigslist. I've seen really nice doors on ebay. No joking!! At least as far as a pic is concerned they are really nice pics.

If I find some good non-72 doors will they work on my project? I know the dimple will need to be transplanted, but what about the fit of the Cheyenne package door panels?

**70cst** · 06-29-2010, 03:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cedorris

So no one likes the reproduction door shells. Thanks for saving me some time and what would definitely be some trouble.

Looks like I'm on the hunt for some rust free doors.

Why not post a WTB (want to buy) in the 67-72 parts forum. One of the perks of being a paid member. Good luck. By the way...you are making a wise decision.

Deaol · 06-29-2010, 03:32 PM

mine were very ugly, but I still took the time over winter to patch them vs going with a reproduction... steer clear of any reproduction door shells they are a nightmare for fitment.. been there done that.

cedorris · 06-29-2010, 03:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 70cst

Why not post a WTB (want to buy) in the 67-72 parts forum. One of the perks of being a paid member. Good luck. By the way...you are making a wise decision.

I've had a WTB ad for 72 doors. Maybe I should expand it to include 67-72. Of course I need to make sure they are compatible with my Cheyenne door panels.

cedorris · 06-29-2010, 04:19 PM

Here's a quick look at what I have now.

Do you folks think I'm better off having these repaired? If so... what are your recommended procedures? How do I eliminate the rust on the inside of the door? Should I have them blasted?

**Classic Heartbeat** · 06-29-2010, 04:23 PM

I would have them repaired. The lower door skin and inner tub is relatively inexpencive and your doors will be better than the repops when done. WES

cedorris · 06-29-2010, 04:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Classic Heartbeat

I would have them repaired. The lower door skin and inner tub is relatively inexpencive and your doors will be better than the repops when done. WES

How do I kill that rust on the inside? I'm worried about that creeping up on me in a few decades.

**Classic Heartbeat** · 06-29-2010, 04:32 PM

A product called "Rustmort". You can buy it at any autobody store. WES

junkyardjohn · 06-29-2010, 07:02 PM

Just spend the money & find some originals. Even if you got the patch panels for free you'll still have a ton of man hours repairing them, & when you get all done... Even if you do a perfect job... You'll still have patched up, repaired doors. (just my opinion) john

sameyrasmea72 · 06-29-2010, 07:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cedorris

If I find some good non-72 doors will they work on my project? I know the dimple will need to be transplanted, but what about the fit of the Cheyenne package door panels?

On non 72 doors you can transplant the dimple and you will need to drill like 8 holes to allow for the pop in clips to hold on the 72 door panels. You will need to use 72 window and interior door handle regulators. I would stay away from 1967 doors because you will have another issue with the exterior door handles.

Ramjet51 · 01-08-2018, 09:45 AM

I think I should share...and I really do regret not finding this thread 4 months ago....I’ve ran through 3 reproduction drivers doors over the past months until I finally understood what went wrong. I purchased my doors from classic muscle, great service, although they listened, I’m not sure that they will follow up with the manufacturer. The issue is that the doors are all 1/8” to 3/16” too high which can be attributed to the window frame position. These frames have 4 spot welds at front and back which set the frame height so evidently a welding jig has slipped. IF YOU ATTEMPT to install the door, once on the hinges most will set the height so that the frame fits at top, if you do this and close the door, you’ll bend the bottom front corner of the door as it is VERY weak. If you start with bottom first to fit frame at top, the door won’t close, so naturally you’ll drop the door and when you close again...you bend the corner.....Yes, I did this...and my body shop did this....and another friend in SC did this, so be careful if you buy reproduction......I’ll agree originals are best, but some of us live in pretty bad weather....

06-28-2010, 11:57 PM	#1
cedorris 1972 Chevy Cheyenne Super Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Oklahoma City, OK Posts: 302	What are your thoughts on reproduction door shells. I am considering a set of reproduction doors for my 72. The original doors are rusted inside and out after 3 decades of water seepage. What are your thoughts and experiences on reproduction door shells? How about restoring the originals? How would I prep them and eliminate all the rust on the inside? __________________ -Clayton 1972 Cheyenne Super LWB 350 - farm truck restore project - twitter @oldgreen

06-29-2010, 12:12 AM	#2
70cst Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2001 Location: New Madison, Ohio Posts: 21,373	Re: What are your thoughts on reproduction door shells. If the doors are both toast...maybe a good set of used doors might be a better option. Just a thought. __________________ A husband can be right...or...A husband can be happy. 67-72 Chevy and GMC Trucks...The Classic Truck for the Classic Folk. 1970 CST Two tone green, 402BB, 400 Automatic, Tach, Buckets, AC, AM-FM, Tilt, GM CB, GM 8 Tract, LWB, etc JOHN 17:3...The better side of "LIFE" Remember: Everyday is a good day...Some are just gooder!

06-29-2010, 12:20 AM	#3
msgross Registered User Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Central PA Posts: 12,201	Re: What are your thoughts on reproduction door shells. I've never heard good things about aftermarket doors or tailgates... __________________ The Garage: 1968 K-10 SWB - "Project Money Pit" 1996 Z-71 - "huntin rig" 1969 C-10 LWB (SOLD) "Project flip that truck or else" 1993 Passport, F@rd 1-ton (SOLD)"Project Cousin Eddie" My Garage Build "The 1,000 footer"

06-29-2010, 12:40 AM	#4
junkyardjohn Registered User Join Date: Aug 2001 Location: SOMERSET KY. Posts: 6,425	Re: What are your thoughts on reproduction door shells. To me?? I'd rather have one solid set of oem doors than 73 sets of repops. But thats just my opinion. john __________________ junkyardjohn 69 1 TON TOW TRUCK // 84 4WD CUCV BLAZER// 85 1 TON 4WD STAKE TRUCK// 86 M1031 5/4 TON 4WD CUCV// ALOT OF OLD TRUCKS FOR ONE OLD MAN TO DRIVE. THERES ROOM FOR ALL OF GODS CREATURES RIGHT NEXT TO MY MASHED POTATOES// LIFE MEMBER OF P.E.T.A (PEOPLE EATING TASTY ANIMALS) DON'T RENT U-HAUL ALWAYS TELL THE TRUTH IT WILL AMAZE PART OF THE PEOPLE & ASTONISH THE REST

06-29-2010, 12:42 AM	#5
67-72trucks Registered User Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Michigan Posts: 530	Re: What are your thoughts on reproduction door shells. Try to find original Gm Metal. I have installed and painted a few tail gate from Lmc with out any problems.

06-29-2010, 12:43 AM	#6
pat 70/71 Registered User Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: newbury park california Posts: 1,038	Re: What are your thoughts on reproduction door shells. x2 find used doors you will be $$$ ahead in the long run cheers, Pat

06-29-2010, 12:43 AM	#7
VA72C10 VA72C10 Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Midlothian, VA Posts: 25,267	Re: What are your thoughts on reproduction door shells. I'll add another resounding vote for nice originals. You'll pay 6-800 for reproduction doors that don't fit without a lot of work when you can find really nice originals for the same and sometimes much cheaper. Heck, find a rust free truck from AZ for 500-1000 ship it to you for another 1000 and use the doors and part out the rest of the parts __________________ Looking for a 67-72 swb or blazer project in or around VA.

06-29-2010, 01:02 AM	#8
67ChevyRedneck Hittin E-Z Street on Mud Tires Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: Greenville, SC Posts: 23,090	Re: What are your thoughts on reproduction door shells. NO NO NO and NO! Repair a set of originals. You should be able to find a decent used set in OK??? __________________ Jesse James 1967 C10 SWB Stepside: 350/700R4/3.73 1965 Ford Mustang: 289/T5-5spd/3.25 Trac-Loc 1968 Pontiac Firebird: Project Fire Chicken! 2015 Silverado Double Cab 5.3L Z71 2001 Jeep Wrangler Sport 4.0L 5spd 2020 Chevrolet Equinox Premium 2.0L Turbo 2011 Mustang V6 ~ Wife's ride American Born, Country by the Grace of God 1967 CST Shop Truck Rebuild! My 1967 C-10 Build Thread My Vintage Air A/C Install Project "On a Dime" Trying my hand at Home Renovation! 1965 Mustang Modifications!

06-29-2010, 06:19 AM	#10
bigsnookmaster Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: St.Petersburg,Fl Posts: 1,269	Re: What are your thoughts on reproduction door shells. JUNK! Find some originals. Transplanting the dimple should be no problem if you have some fab experience. Good luck. __________________ greg http://community.webshots.com/user/68406Stepside

06-29-2010, 02:37 PM	#12
cedorris 1972 Chevy Cheyenne Super Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Oklahoma City, OK Posts: 302	Re: What are your thoughts on reproduction door shells. So no one likes the reproduction door shells. Thanks for saving me some time and what would definitely be some trouble. Looks like I'm on the hunt for some rust free doors. __________________ -Clayton 1972 Cheyenne Super LWB 350 - farm truck restore project - twitter @oldgreen Last edited by 70cst; 06-29-2010 at 03:29 PM.

06-29-2010, 02:56 PM	#13
68jewel On the path to financial ruin! Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Dallas, TX Posts: 722	Re: What are your thoughts on reproduction door shells. Try ebay and craigslist. I've seen really nice doors on ebay. No joking!! At least as far as a pic is concerned they are really nice pics. __________________ *'72 Chevelle SS--4.0 Whipple LS7, T56 Magnum, 20X9/20X13 HRE 791R, 6-piston Baer brakes, IRS '68 SWB C10--LS3, TKO-600, 22x10/22x12 HRE 948R, C5 suspension, shockwaves, custom frame Ooh Wee's Makeover*...http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=376280

06-29-2010, 03:32 PM	#16
Deaol Registered User Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: N. Vancouver Island Posts: 122	Re: What are your thoughts on reproduction door shells. mine were very ugly, but I still took the time over winter to patch them vs going with a reproduction... steer clear of any reproduction door shells they are a nightmare for fitment.. been there done that. __________________ * 1968 GMC Swb - 98% done (current restoration) * 1971 Chevy Lwb - Retired Dump Hauler * 1982 K10 Longbox - New Dump Hauler

06-29-2010, 04:19 PM	#18
cedorris 1972 Chevy Cheyenne Super Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Oklahoma City, OK Posts: 302	Re: What are your thoughts on reproduction door shells. Here's a quick look at what I have now. Do you folks think I'm better off having these repaired? If so... what are your recommended procedures? How do I eliminate the rust on the inside of the door? Should I have them blasted? __________________ -Clayton 1972 Cheyenne Super LWB 350 - farm truck restore project - twitter @oldgreen

06-29-2010, 04:23 PM	#19
Classic Heartbeat Project Junkie! Fishing Poor!! Join Date: Dec 1999 Location: Olympia,Wa. 98512 Posts: 10,766	Re: What are your thoughts on reproduction door shells. I would have them repaired. The lower door skin and inner tub is relatively inexpencive and your doors will be better than the repops when done. WES __________________ On-line catolog Classic Heartbeat Pickup Parts WEHEPP@comcast.net Call us Toll Free (888) 338-2502 Like Us on Facebook No appointment necessary. 72 BB Chevy Custom Deluxe / Custom Camper 67 I-6 (Soon to be 5.7 LS1) Panel 68 BB Chevy Short Bed 72 6.0 LQ9 Short Bed Chevy 4X4 Olympia's fastest growing truck parts supplier. Olympia's home for Wayward Chevys

06-29-2010, 04:32 PM	#21
Classic Heartbeat Project Junkie! Fishing Poor!! Join Date: Dec 1999 Location: Olympia,Wa. 98512 Posts: 10,766	Re: What are your thoughts on reproduction door shells. A product called "Rustmort". You can buy it at any autobody store. WES __________________ On-line catolog Classic Heartbeat Pickup Parts WEHEPP@comcast.net Call us Toll Free (888) 338-2502 Like Us on Facebook No appointment necessary. 72 BB Chevy Custom Deluxe / Custom Camper 67 I-6 (Soon to be 5.7 LS1) Panel 68 BB Chevy Short Bed 72 6.0 LQ9 Short Bed Chevy 4X4 Olympia's fastest growing truck parts supplier. Olympia's home for Wayward Chevys



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06-29-2010, 07:02 PM	#22
junkyardjohn Registered User Join Date: Aug 2001 Location: SOMERSET KY. Posts: 6,425	Re: What are your thoughts on reproduction door shells. Just spend the money & find some originals. Even if you got the patch panels for free you'll still have a ton of man hours repairing them, & when you get all done... Even if you do a perfect job... You'll still have patched up, repaired doors. (just my opinion) john __________________ junkyardjohn 69 1 TON TOW TRUCK // 84 4WD CUCV BLAZER// 85 1 TON 4WD STAKE TRUCK// 86 M1031 5/4 TON 4WD CUCV// ALOT OF OLD TRUCKS FOR ONE OLD MAN TO DRIVE. THERES ROOM FOR ALL OF GODS CREATURES RIGHT NEXT TO MY MASHED POTATOES// LIFE MEMBER OF P.E.T.A (PEOPLE EATING TASTY ANIMALS) DON'T RENT U-HAUL ALWAYS TELL THE TRUTH IT WILL AMAZE PART OF THE PEOPLE & ASTONISH THE REST

01-08-2018, 09:45 AM	#24
Ramjet51 Registered User Join Date: Jun 2017 Location: Raleigh Posts: 97	Re: What are your thoughts on reproduction door shells. I think I should share...and I really do regret not finding this thread 4 months ago....I’ve ran through 3 reproduction drivers doors over the past months until I finally understood what went wrong. I purchased my doors from classic muscle, great service, although they listened, I’m not sure that they will follow up with the manufacturer. The issue is that the doors are all 1/8” to 3/16” too high which can be attributed to the window frame position. These frames have 4 spot welds at front and back which set the frame height so evidently a welding jig has slipped. IF YOU ATTEMPT to install the door, once on the hinges most will set the height so that the frame fits at top, if you do this and close the door, you’ll bend the bottom front corner of the door as it is VERY weak. If you start with bottom first to fit frame at top, the door won’t close, so naturally you’ll drop the door and when you close again...you bend the corner.....Yes, I did this...and my body shop did this....and another friend in SC did this, so be careful if you buy reproduction......I’ll agree originals are best, but some of us live in pretty bad weather.... __________________ You'll never know unless you try

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