Door Compatibility

[TexasMan81]

I am rebuilding the door of a 1978 Scottsdale. It isnt in good shape so I was thinking about using the door I have from a 1985 suburban. Can anyone here tell me if the parts are 100% interchangeable? OR are there subtle differences that will prevent me using this with my parts? The white door below is the 78. Red is 85.

Please let me know if anyone has personally seen or done this.

Thanks

 

[TexasMan81]

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[CheemsK1500]

You should be good to go. 1977 and onward is pretty much the same door shell, even though the plastic inner panel changes shape after 1980, all the parts can be mixed and matched with no compatibility issues. 73-76 doors have different inner skins and have some unique components.

 

[fast 99]

I believe the only major difference is the channel for window. Later models use a thinner window. They may still be interchangeable using the correct channel run weatherstrip. Someone should be along and confirm that.

 

[xm20k]

I'm pretty sure 77 and up was just hardware/trim changes the shell is the same.

 

[chevdude]

Either way you look at it, for nice door gaps and fitment, you're better off using OEM stuff than repops. Over the years, the reproduction stuff has got a lot better.
And I have come across the thin vs. thicker glass issue. The replacement window seals on my 67 seem like they were made for thicker glass.

 

[TexasMan81]

Thanks everyone!! we will mount and rebuild today and keep my fingers crossed.

 

[legopnuematic]

As stated, the door shells 77+ are basically the same.

And as stated, the window glass did get thinner in 1981(iirc). If you use the 70s glass, use 70s weather stripping and other guts, if you use the 80s parts, then purchase for an 80s truck.

 

[fast 99]

As stated, the door shells 77+ are basically the same.

And as stated, the window glass did get thinner in 1981(iirc). If you use the 70s glass, use 70s weather stripping and other guts, if you use the 80s parts, then purchase for an 80s truck.

I believe that's correct. Think GM claimed the 81 up trucks are lighter by at least 200#. Glass would be a good place to loose weight.