Door adjustment Tech Tip

["jtrealty@xxxx " <jtrealty@xxxx>]

In cooperation with Rob Grady I have created a Tech Tip on door 
adjustments. It has always been difficult to know if you needed a new 
strut or a torsion bar adjustment or both till now. With this Tip you 
can tell if a new strut will correct your drooping doors or only an 
adjustment. 
First step is to remove the door strut. To do that first remove the 
retaing clips on both ends. Sometimes it takes a little force to
"pop" 
off the ends of the struts, especially if they haven't been removed 
for a long time. Sometimes the end of the strut can even break off. 
You might have to hit it with a piece of 2x4 to do it or pry it off. 
Don't forget to use a prop to hold the door fully open while you 
remove the strut!
Next SLOWLY lower the door. It shouldn't close all the way but
should 
remain open somewhere between 2-6 inches depending on how much
tension 
is in the torsion bar. This is reletively unaffected by temperature.
I measured this from the edge of the door sill to the lip of the door.
If your door is not in this range then you will need a Torsion Bar 
Adjustment. 
If your door is in this range and droops then you will need a strut.
You might still need a slight adjustment depending on the temperature 
and age of the strut but at least you will know if you need a strut.
BE AWARE if you need to adjust the torsion bar it can be a DANGEROUS 
procedure. Get help either on the phone or best if you can get an 
experienced person. When you replace the strut put a dab of grease on 
the ball before you pop it back on and don't forget the clips. 
Overtightening a torsion bar to compensate for a weak strut will 
overstress the door system so it is not recommended. You can get by 
with 1-2 splines but after that you should consider replaceing the 
strut. With 1-2 adjustments struts last for years.
David Teitelbaum
vin 10757
Technical Editor Delorean Midatlantic and Tri State Delorean Owners