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Install | Rear Door Hinge Swap

Step by Step Instructions for your Hinge Swap:

    Step-by-Step Instructions:

    1. Prepare for the Job:

    • This is a two-person job. One person will handle the wrenching, while the other person holds the door in place to avoid misalignment or damage.
    • Start by tracing around the current hinge with a pen. This will help you note the hinge's original position and ensure proper alignment after reinstallation.

    2. Remove the Hinge from the Door:

    • Top Hinge: Use a 17mm wrench to loosen and remove the bolts on the top hinge.
    • Bottom Hinge: Use a T45 Torx bit or an 8mm socket to loosen and remove the bolts holding the bottom hinge.
    • Loosen these bolts, but ensure someone is holding the door to prevent it from shifting.

    3. Swap the Hinge:

    • Once the bolts are removed, take off the hinge from the door first, and then remove it from the van.
    • Ensure that the small side of the new hinge faces the van during installation.
    • Note: The hinges are marked with an “L” for the left side and an “R” for the right side, to ensure you place them correctly.

    4. Install the New Hinge:

    • Position the new hinge in place, aligning it where the old hinge was traced.
    • Attach the bolts loosely—tighten them enough so the hinge stays in place, but leave some flexibility. You do not want to tighten them completely yet.

    5. Check Door Alignment:

    • After loosely attaching the hinge, close the door. This ensures that the hinge and door are properly aligned.
    • Once you confirm the alignment, tighten the bolts on the van and door side securely.

    6. Final Tightening:

    • Open the door again and tighten all the bolts on both the door and van side completely. Make sure they are snug.
    • Double-check the door alignment by opening and closing the door a few times.

    7. Repeat for the Other Door:

    • Follow the same process for the second door, starting with the upper hinge and then moving to the lower one.

     Congrats on installing your new gear from Owl!

    Remember, Owl is the #1 manufacturer of Off Road gear and accessories for Adventure vans. We have our van experts standing by at our HQ in Arizona if you have any questions. Our gear for Mercedes Sprinter vans, Ford Transit and Winnebago Revel is Made in the USA, and many products are in stock and ship fast.

    More soon,
    John Willenborg