two questions: 1. door hinges 2. panel gap

[noob]

What's the difference between the upper and lower door hinges? i bought my 58 truck when it was mostly disassembled and I'm trying to put it together. Also, what is the ideal gap between panels?

[Daze57]

not sure on the hinges but i believe 1/8 th inch gap is what the assembley manual has said for panels - i am sure some body and fender gents will help out and give their thoughts

[GMtrucknut!!]

Tthe hinge that has the spring on it goes on the top if the hinge pins haven't been replaced the pointed end will go towards the bottom.

[Russell Ashley]

I don't think you can install them in the wrong location. They bolt on differently. the lower one has a welded in nut in the front hole while the upper doesn't.

[OrrieG]

Door gaps on these trucks are usually a little off, especially on trucks late in the production runs. These were built as work trucks, all the farmers wanted was a door that stayed shut and kept out the rain and dust. There are numerous threads on adding or subtracting material from the doors to get the gaps exact. I figure I will align the jamb and top, let the bottom be what it is and then align the fender to the door. 3 out of 4 is good enough for me and only drunks, dogs and small children will see the sill gap.

[Daze57]

'' only drunks, dogs and small children will see the sill gap.''

well let;s see i dont have any small children - i do have dogs -hmmmmmmmmmm whuts left?

[_Ogre]

i agree with orrieg, fit the doors as best as you can and go with it.
my doors fit like factory set them up, like crap.
if you don't have at least 3/16 all around the movement of the door while driving will chip the paint.
mine vary from 1/8 to 1/4, no one has ever mention my door gaps
the bottom of the drivers door sticks out 1/4 inch from the jamb

[_Ogre]

the hinge with the spring goes on top
seeing as they are the same for each side...
pin up on one side and pin down on the other
i didn't track which is which