Quick-release door for LC76 V8

[bobhof]

I want to make some modifications to my front left door so it can be easily removed when I am filming (long-term I'm actually considering adding new hinges to the outside of the vehicle so the door opens 180 degrees, but I'm going to try the simpler method first to see how useful it is).

I saw a video here showing how to swap out the hinge pin with a clevis pin:

. I'm trying to figure out the size of the 2 pins I need to buy. I can measure the length, but I can't get my vernier in to check the diameter of the pin. My local Toyota dealer says they don't know and they only sell complete hinges. Does anyone know the diameter?

 

[SteveJB]

I would say get a hinge set from your local dealer or scrap yard then you can measure on the bench and modify to see what works for your needs then decide if this modification would suit your requirements for filming then atleast you still have a secure and lockable vehicle in the meantime the only problem I can see is having an external hinge mount as strong as the A piller for the weight of the door and your camera equipment then saying that as you are working in the filming industry there must be specialist fabrication workers who could advise you for your specific requirements

 

[bobhof]

Thanks Steve. I checked with my local dealer and the hinges are not cheap. I think cutting out the current pin and replacing it with a removable one will be quite simple, but I don't want to start the project before I have the new pins ready.

Regarding the external hinge idea, you are correct. I will need to remove the front left panel and reinforce behind it and also inside the door. It's quite a big job that will require some precise metalwork, so I'm a bit hesitant to embark on this project before I know how useful it will be.

 

[bobhof]

I would say get a hinge set from your local dealer or scrap yard then you can measure on the bench and modify to see what works for your needs then decide if this modification would suit your requirements for filming then atleast you still have a secure and lockable vehicle in the meantime the only problem I can see is having an external hinge mount as strong as the A piller for the weight of the door and your camera equipment then saying that as you are working in the filming industry there must be specialist fabrication workers who could advise you for your specific requirements

Regarding the specialist fabrication people, I live a bit of a way from the city. I'm chatting to the local panelbeaters and workshops to see who might be able to do the job.

 

[SteveJB]

OK suggestion time scrap yard for door and hinges then you got the complete assembly to work with now you make up a box section door pillar mount the door on it then everything is in place for you to modify the hinges for quick disconnection or build a tube door with your camera equipment mounts which would be a lot lighter than a complete door assembly similar to the vertical tubes you got on you truck already

 

[bobhof]

Thanks Steve. I'm looking out for an old door. That's actually a great idea I think. If I understand you, you are suggesting having 2 doors, the original, plus one modified for filming. Swap them out with quick release hinges. The filming door is modified - glass removed, window hole cut larger, mounting bars added.

 

[Tractionman]

Bob, can you get calipers or dividers in there for sizing the pin, then measure off that with your vernier. Not exactly precision engineering, but would give you a start ?

 

[bobhof]

Bob, can you get calipers or dividers in there for sizing the pin, then measure off that with your vernier. Not exactly precision engineering, but would give you a start ?

I don't have calipers and I'm not sure what dividers are, but I will try find something that will work. Good idea.

 

[SteveJB]

Dividers are something like a school compase but with pins in both legs of the compase instead of one pin one pencil or if you are nautical the same as measuring between two points on a map

 

[Shayne]

Probably the oldest and most simple hinge known to man , weld a gate hinge outside the door and it can only be lifted off when its open .

 

[bobhof]

Dividers are something like a school compase but with pins in both legs of the compase instead of one pin one pencil or if you are nautical the same as measuring between two points on a map

Ah, thank you. That is a good idea. I will try with a compass.

 

[Tractionman]

Bob, give it a go. The only trouble is, that type can move easily from your setting, as opposed to engineer's dividers, (or calipers) sprung steel 'hinge' with screw 'fixed' adjustment on the legs.
Another I've used on the odd occasion is an adjustable spanner, close the jaws on your pin, and measure off that. Again, not exactly precision engineering, but works, ( as long as you don't move the adjusting wheel) Good luck !

 

[bobhof]

Sorry for the delayed response. I could not find my compass and then I got distracted. Just checked and as close as I can tell it is an 8x50mm pin, in case that helps anyone.