I'm looking for a solution for my Vintage Speedster doors to keep them from opening too far. I really like the look of a leather strap but I'm curious about the strength of the mounting points. Does anyone have any experience and / or ideas about this?
Also, I've looked at several and I'd like a recommendation on the best length strap to order if I go this direction. The pre-fab ones tend to come in 150 or 190 cm lengths, although I'm not opposed to making my own.
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You can also put a chunk of that white plastic foam (not the styrofoam but the tuff version that is really strong) in each hinge cavity. It is used in many TV shipping boxes. I think its called Polyethylene? It acts as a door stop and the straps could be added for aesthetics.
I've used a block of dense cushion foam for 12 years in my VS. Hasn't failed me yet.
Tom Williams posted:I've used a block of dense cushion foam for 12 years in my VS. Hasn't failed me yet.
Got a pic?
Yes, a picture is worth a few words anyway...
I never thought of the straps as more aesthetics than function. Having the foam inside the hinge cavity to do the work and the straps in the passenger compartment for looks sounds good. It should lessen the tension on the mounts as well...
I used little half round door bump stops. In the hardware section @ home depot.
What ever choice you make for a door bump stop, you still need to be careful, not allowing the door to open hard as it will create a deep stress crack in the fiberglass above the top door hinge. Door limiter straps with "Footman loops" is an alternative.
Bill,
Photos are difficult, since once the foam is in the front cavity area it is tough to see and also tough to remove to display. It is a 2.5"x5"x12" piece of seat cushion foam that you just push forward in between the hinges from inside the car. You can get the foam from an upholstery shop or even a Jo-ann's or Michaels might have it, or find an old sofa cushion. Just make sure it is dense enough to have appropriate resistance.
Tom W
I wouldn't use furniture foam as it hold water. Guess not much to rust though. Find that stiff white or pink foam used for electronics shipping (not Styrofoam like the cheap ice chests). It works great and doesn't deteriorate or absorb moisture.
Some pictures in the attached post--
https://www.speedsterowners.co...r-opening-restraints
I use the rubber bumpers from Home Depot... and two sided molding take to hold it in place. Works wonderfully, nice bounce to it when doors swing open. pictures/ part numbers in attached link.
also, if fabricating is your thing... here are other more elaborate options;
https://www.speedsterowners.co...8#557786615266224678
cheers
I've used pipe insulation that comes with adhesive on it. Cut off a 4" piece and one side of the adhesive. A little tricky to get it in place with the door on, but can be done. I only do it on dark colored cars, because it's too visible on light colored cars.
I used the "Simpler is (sometimes) better" rule of MUSBJIM:
I went to a Jeep dealer and bought a pair of door straps for a Jeep Wrangler or something (the low-end, open version) and installed them between the door and door frame up about 8" or so from the floor. They come in your choice of color, as long as your choice is black. Just used sheetmetal screws into the fiberglass and they've been working well for 15 years. Not as hidden as the foam blocks or rubber-babybuggy-bumpers, but they tend to obscure my stereo door-speaker wires at the same spot.
