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Sun Mar 16, 2003 7:50 pm

My panel van dosen't have any grab handles to close the door after your in. Is there another way to close my doors instead of opening the window to get any leverage? I removed the panels and dont see any indication that any handles are used? someone tell me the secret? Thanks (New owner)

Sun Mar 16, 2003 9:02 pm

I have a '64 deluxe which has the chrome door handles which are supposed to be used to close the door. I would never do that, though. The pin through the handle is too weak to take the stress, at least it seems that way to me. I always open the window to pull on the door frame to close the door.

Wed Mar 19, 2003 4:39 pm

Thanks
Any other advise from others?

Wed Mar 19, 2003 4:47 pm

I have a '63 deluxe that I broke the 'correct' rule and installed the '66-'67 door pulls on both doors. I drive it all the time and find that the pulls are very convenient and effective.

Wed Mar 19, 2003 7:58 pm

i got some grab handles out of the back of a bay window bus

Wed Mar 19, 2003 8:02 pm

what year is your bus? if it is a 66-67 you should have a plastic handle about the middle if the top endge on the door panel, if not they are missing...busses 65 and earlier use the door handle itself for closing. Dont worry about shearing your handle pin...it will never happen, the handle will break first(but that will never happen).

Thu Mar 20, 2003 7:43 pm

I have a 63 panel van. It sounds to me like I may just open the window. Thanks for all the help. I got a few more questions that need answers.

Fri Mar 21, 2003 8:14 am

I put the 66-67 white plastic door pulls on my 63 using the existing screws for the door panel, they work great but they are not correct for that year, you normally use the inner door handle to close the door, you can buy the 66-67 door pulls new and they work better.