Tips and tricks to replace Burb rear outside door handles?

[Old77]

What is the magic combination to removing the outside door handles on the rear doors of a suburban? I can't seem to get the rod to let go of the handle. Do I need to unhook the rod from the latch assembly? The doors are small enough I can barely even see inside the door let alone have enough room to detach the rod from the latch lol

 

[Old77]

Btw I've already taken the clip out on the handle and it didn't release the rod lol

 

[skysurfer]

When I was removing all the trim from mine getting it ready for paint I ran into the same problem. After messing with it for a while and getting nowhere I called the paint shop and told the guy I couldn't get the outside handles off. He told me that was something they would have to do, mentioned something about a special tool they had just for that purpose. I was more than happy to let them deal with it but I'd still like to know how it's done.

 

[HotRodPC]

Maybe?!?

I don't remember having such a problem. Not sure what I did that was so special. I remember it being a T total bitch though. Is the Burb doors different from a pick up door for some reason?



Nevermind, skimming again. We're talking about the Rear Burb doors. My bad !!!

 

[Old77]

When I was removing all the trim from mine getting it ready for paint I ran into the same problem. After messing with it for a while and getting nowhere I called the paint shop and told the guy I couldn't get the outside handles off. He told me that was something they would have to do, mentioned something about a special tool they had just for that purpose. I was more than happy to let them deal with it but I'd still like to know how it's done.

Well that doesn't give me warm and fuzzy feelings lol

 

[bucket]

Hmm, I think I've had them suckers out before. I don't recall anything out of the ordinary. I've got a door with the panel off already, I'll take a gander and see if anything rings a bell.

 

[Old77]

Hmm, I think I've had them suckers out before. I don't recall anything out of the ordinary. I've got a door with the panel off already, I'll take a gander and see if anything rings a bell.

That would be extremely helpful! @bucket I'm probably just a doofus but you can set me straight

 

[bucket]

The rod needs unhooked from the latch, then the rod comes out with the handle. If you haven't already removed the inside handle and bracket, it will be helpful to do that. The rod for the inside handle hooks to the latch with a plastic flip style clip that is easy to unclip. Then you can get to the outside handle rod (it uses the old style metal clip (pull the little tiny tab out and slide the clip, then pull the rod out)). You might find it helpful to unbolt the latch from the door too. It gives you more room to work, but then it's also flopping around in the door as you try to work on it.