Top Kick, Kodiak, 3500HD Exterior Door Handle Info, Cheap Handles, and Install

jus10inbrla said:

Ok guys just an update. After much debate & research and not much input.. i went for it; long story short u can 100% use your

EXISTING OPEN DOOR HANDLE TO LATCH ROD.

first step, mark a line down the entire straight portion of the shaft. I used a set of tubing cutters, cut about the middle. Then cut a 1/2 “ off again. Now, heres where the tricky part comes in. Take a grinder & smooth the cut, as it leaves a small dimple. Next, figure out how the he’ll your going to attach it back. Ive seen people just cut it, then jb weld a 1/2” overlap.

Personally, I used a pair of vice grips, catching a SMALL portion of the rod. Just line the straight edge mark back up, Then spot welded on both sides. TURN YOUR WELDING MACHINE DOWN LOW . I used a stick rod, however if i did it at work the mig or tig woulda made alot better tack. Its that simple. I have the passenger install.. now to do driver. I still have a few feelers out for the lock rod, but i rarely lock the truck and if i do i do have keyless entry.

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351FUN said:

So does this mean the only new parts we'd need are the handles and lock pawl?

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jus10inbrla said:

See these notes. Notice this is from bottom to top, with degree measurements also bottom to top

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