The infamous drivers door handle failure
03-13-2020, 10:23 AM
#31
Rennlist Member
It's certainly not the end of the world to do. I've done both of my doors, the biggest pain is to just have the right small tools to get it done. I recommend a small 1/4 inch snap on socket kit, it's small and can turn bolts in very tight spaces.
03-14-2020, 01:04 PM
#32
Nordschleife Master
I notice that some owners pull the handle up until it hits its stop. I never do that - I let off as soon as the door opens. And have never had a problem with the handle.
Same principle with the ignition lock. I never turn it to the stop; only until the starter engages.
I am very gentle with my car, and have not seen these items break in the 23 years I've owned 928s.
Same principle with the ignition lock. I never turn it to the stop; only until the starter engages.
I am very gentle with my car, and have not seen these items break in the 23 years I've owned 928s.
Don't just let it snap back into place.
NPR's Car Talk had some very sound basic advice on a lot of stuff.
One thing they mentioned from time to time is that the driver is a LOT stronger than the switches and handles in the car.
However, you don't have to go around proving it, the car does not care.
12-11-2020, 06:11 PM
#33
5th Gear
After searching high and low for someone to fix the door handle on my 1985 928 and no success I decided to give it a shot. I have every tool that snap-on sells so what could go wrong? After inspecting the new part I can see why it does not last very long. Not like most of the German parts on this car. Anyway long story short it is a true pain in the butt. I am 77 and don’t see up close like I used to which did not help but getting to the part was one of the most difficult repairs I have done. I think if the other side ever breaks it is going on BAT the next day.
12-11-2020, 07:28 PM
#34
Rennlist Member
I did this repair to my 89 S4 5 speed shortly after I bought it a couple of years ago and by following Alan's write up about how to do it I found that it was a very straight forward repair. Even the protection plate that is in there was no big deal to remove and replace. I was able to do some vinyl repairs to the door panel(s) while I had them off. I took both of the off just for that at the same time. Don't let this thread mislead you about doing this repair to your own 928. I will do it again any time I find the need; and I am older than the other guy who had so much difficulty with it.
Last edited by Jerry Feather; 12-11-2020 at 10:51 PM.
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DKWalser (12-11-2020)
12-11-2020, 10:54 PM
#36
Rennlist Member
OK, but I wont hold my breath. The other side does not usually get so much use and probably doesn't break very often. You can come over the hill anyway, and don't forget the wine.
12-11-2020, 11:28 PM
#37
Nordschleife Master
I made the mistake years ago to try to open the door during the (pneumatic?) system to open the door. I was inside the 928 and hit the lock button then jumped outside to try and open the door while it was activating. (You could hear it). It bent and had to spend about $400 in parts, labor.
Mark was helpful though from 928 INTL.
Bummer
Dick
Mark was helpful though from 928 INTL.
Bummer
Dick
