On Sat, 10 Feb 2007 01:24:12 -0900, Troy <colorworks@GCI.NET> wrote: >After looking at some pics of Westy modifications, I decided to purchase a couple grab handles as I think they would be a nice addition to the van. Below is a link that Joel Walker sent me, (thanks again Joel)! that shows the location of these grab handles. > >www.mts.net/~rrh/WestyMods.html > >I read the cautions concerning drilling into the pillar from the archives, but there was no mention of how the handles actually attach. Does one need to tap a hole or are sheet-metal screws used? If sheet-metal screws are used, I would think that would create a problem with the wires in the pillar. Could somebody tell me what size screws are used, and what type, sheet-metal versus machine, length, etc. do I need to tap holes or what's involved here? > >Thanks, > >Troy >89 Vanagon In addition to the grab handle itself, you also need two black plastic bases which accommodate the curved section of the "A" pillar while providing a flat surface to receive each end of the actual grab handle. The two mounting holes are, as best I can recall, 7/16" or 1/2" in diameter, into each of which which snaps a white nylon bushing with a screw hole in the center, similar in function to a wall anchor. Insertion of the mounting screw spreads the anchor tightly in the hole, as well as expanding the anchor to a size slightly larger than the hole on the back side. This bushing provides for a distribution over a wider area, of the load imposed on the handle, far superior to what could be obtained by mounting the grab handle with sheetmetal screws. Other than the grab handle I obtained for mounting on the driver's side of my van, which was provided with the bases, the anchors, and the proper screws, I have yet to see a used one offered for sale with all the necessary parts. Should you find the necessary parts, and choose to proceed, take your time with the layout. The location of the holes laterally on the "A" pillar is especially critical if the base pieces are to conform to the profile of the pillar, which they must if they are to provide the platform for the handle. Center-punch the hole locations, start with a small drill bit, and work your way through increasingly larger drill bits, trying to avoid having the bit "grab" and be drawn into the void of the "A" pillar; remember, there are wires inside the "A" pillar on the driver's side. Though I didn't use one, a bit stop is not bad idea to prevent the drill bit traveling too far into the pillar (it could be as simple as a block of wood of the needed thickness). Good luck. |
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