1952-59 Ford '55 Inside Door Release Handle Removal

Trying to remove inside door release handle from my '55 Customline. I've removed a bunch from 60's Fords but can't seem to get the clip undone on this one. Is this made the same way? Have the flat tool with the 'U' shape cut-out. 'Bout to get out the grinder! Need to remove the handle to take of the door panel to remove the door lock to get a key made at a locksmith for my ignition. HELP!

 

Those are always fun. They are the little horseshoe clips. I had the same issues. I was able to use a flashlight and push the door panel in far enough to see the clip and rotate it were I wanted it, and then used pliers to push it off. You might be able to use a long flat screwdriver to push the clip off. I know a common trick is to use a shop rag once you know where its lined up, slide the rag in and pop it off, kind like this

 

they make a tool for that, costs about a couple of bucks or so at auto zone. much cheaper than gouging the door panel. its flat, somewhat u shaped and slides between door panel and windowcrank/door handle. a little push and the come right off. dont ask how i discovered that neat tool after the fact.

 

I see you already have the tool,I found on my '54 if you push the tool in on the clip and rotate the crank slightly clockwise they will pop right off when I pushed it straight in it was a no go.

 

The tool looks good hanging on the wall. Take an old hack saw blade, break it in half, and tape up one end. On the other end, grind a hook in one side, and curve the back side away. Bend it just a bit about 1 1/2 inches back. Use a wide blade screw driver to hold back the spring under the handle, hook the new tool under one side of the spring clip and pull. Works in one quarter the time and far less frustration.

 

Seems I am not the only one that bought that tool, tried it and tossed it DEEP in the toolbox drawer hoping I would never find it again.

 

http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=28592&pictureid=349243
Hope I got this right. I find these plyers at the swap meet now and then, most guys don't know wahat they are for. I never paid more than $3.00 for them, work like a champ. More pictures at my album. Gerry

 

http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=28592&pictureid=349243
Hope I got this right. I find these plyers at the swap meet now and then, most guys don't know what they are for. I never paid more than $3.00 for them, work like a champ. More pictures at my album. Gerry

 

I have one of those ****py tools too , the one that is flat with the piece cut out . It did work on 3 of my fordors but not on the p***enger front door . I ended up tearing the old panel off in pieces , I have 4 new ones , and I still can't get it loose . Seems like someone used the "U" clip then glued it on too . I am playing hell trying to get it off . I will work on it when the weather gets warmer on April . No hurry right now !
I haven't seen those pliers type in years . I had that one back in the early 70's . I would love to find another one as they seem to work the best !
If someone has an extra one to sell send me a PM please . I really don't want the newer chinese **** !

Jim

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL !

 

Hi,

The standard sheet metal clip remover works great on the later stuff. What's different about these handles is that the slot for the spring clip doesn't go all the way across the handle boss, so the ends of the clip ends are hidden behind solid metal where the one-piece removal tool can't get at them. You need the plier type tool, and mine is either a KD or Lisle tool. (I just looked at it, and it says "made in USA" but no PN or brand). The hacksaw blade trick will work too, if you shape it so you can feel for the slot. After wasting hours making various tools, the plier tool took 5 minutes to remove all the handles. Good luck!

 

i tried the tool didnt work. used the shop rag trick worked great.

 

I've had one my 53 for 37 years and always used the plier type tool. Sometimes they come off easy and sometimes you have to work at it!

 

I've never seen that shop rag trick before..Hmmmmm....gonna have go try that! Thanks for sharing

 

A body shop friend recomended nylon stockings he says it grabs better, just don't want colse friends finding them in my tool box.
Merry Christmas

 

close freinds or your wife? neither would have a good ending.

 

Thanks for all the suggestions. I'll give another try and report back. Wife gave me a new tarp for Christmas and I covered the '55 before the flood earlier this week. I've owned it a year now and want to drive it!