GM-Chevy cargo van, side doors

[ga-hvac-tech]

Just my $0.02 worth... I prefer vans with double swing doors on the side...

My first van had a sliding side door, it was always a problem. I suspect the door is not built for lots of use, specifically what service vans get.

[VTP99]

Counter sunk makes sense, because there's almost no clearance between the door and that piece when the door's shut. Guess I could just use a bigger bit to create the counter sink first.

Is there something in the head to keep turn it with when they install it?
Are there nuts & washers on the back of the bolt?

You could mig weld it back or use countersink bolts with hex heads. Is it accessible from behind to install nuts ? How thick is the hinge for countersinking ?

[ga-hvac-tech]

Counter sunk makes sense, because there's almost no clearance between the door and that piece when the door's shut. Guess I could just use a bigger bit to create the counter sink first.

Is there something in the head to keep turn it with when they install it?
Are there nuts & washers on the back of the bolt?

If I am right, you might want to contact a specialty bolt company. The screw used is hardened and has a specific angle from the flat head to the body. I would get the proper drill for that angle, as the contact surface should mate properly. And if I remember, the flat head has a cross screwdriver opening. Not sure, I think a long time ago GM had threads in the body for those screws... I am sure they do not now.

IMO a little research and attention to subtle details might produce a repair that will not require attention in the future.

[Diceman]

Counter sunk makes sense, because there's almost no clearance between the door and that piece when the door's shut. Guess I could just use a bigger bit to create the counter sink first.

Is there something in the head to keep turn it with when they install it?
Are there nuts & washers on the back of the bolt?

I was thinking about that, I'll have to take a look see.

[Diceman]

Just my $0.02 worth... I prefer vans with double swing doors on the side...

My first van had a sliding side door, it was always a problem. I suspect the door is not built for lots of use, specifically what service vans get.

These are double swing doors.

[ga-hvac-tech]

These are double swing doors.

THX Dice... I went and re-read the thread... I guess I read 'side door' as 'slide door'... Since I am about to get a replacement Chevy 3500 van in a mos or so, I better look carefully at the door hinges. Might need to do the repair we have talked about here (counter-sunk flat-head screws with nuts on the back).

[HeyBob]

And before you start up any crap, its still way better than a Ford.

GMC=Garage Mans Companion

That being said, they all have their weak points. I remember waaaay back in the day when I had a few Dodge vans, talk about crap door hinges, I kept them in stock they were so bad, they were a bolt on deal though.