How do I replace the outide sliding door handle

CMREISER

MEMBER
1995 FORD AEROSTAR
156,000 MILES

I did this once before and don't remember problems. But I have the panels off and need to remove the nuts from the bolts that are part of the door handle. Do I need a long socket? If so what size? If not, what tool do I use?

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Monday, January 16th, 2012 AT 6:48 PM

3 Replies

HMAC300

MECHANIC
48,601 POSTS

If the panel is off, then all you need do is unclip the door handle form teh lock mechanism, take teh nuts off and remove t he handle. Reverse teh process for installation.

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Monday, January 16th, 2012 AT 6:52 PM

CMREISER

MEMBER
2 POSTS

The lock mechanism is held in place in this model Aerostar with nuts, not clips. It's a 1995 Aerostar. If you can see the picture I attached, you will see the bolts built into the handle mechanism. Perhaps you are looking at a later model car.

Since posing my question, I have found that a 10mm long socket will remove the nuts and then the handle just slides out.
If you can suggest how I can get the nuts onto the replacement handle with dropping them into the door, that would be very helpful.

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Monday, January 16th, 2012 AT 7:26 PM

HMAC300

MECHANIC
48,601 POSTS

If you don't have amagnetized socket to hold the nuts then you can try putting some heavy grease in the socket and putting then ut in there. Alot of times that holds the nut while yo start it on the threads. Or if you can get two hands in there which I doubt you could put a magnet on the socket to hold the nut. If you don't have grease available someitmes jamming paer in the socket will hold the nut as well.

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Monday, January 16th, 2012 AT 7:58 PM