Will learly barn doors fit late model tub?

[Roberto]

I have an 83 tub and was considering the early barn half doors for when I run a softop. Besides tapping holes for hinges is there any other mods to make those early barn doors fit in opening of late model tub that had ambulance doors? is the width and height of lower tub same as early model? how about bottom channel where ambu doors lock into place? any info is appreciated.

thanks
Rob

 

[FF LC FREAK]

The dimensions are not exactly the same. When I put barn doors on my later model Aqualu tub, I had to widen the barn doors about a 1/2". They don't fit as well as they do on an early model tub, but they fill the opening no problem. I also had to add about a 1/2" to the hook as well. And, like you said, drill the holes for the doors. Overall, it wasn't too bad to get them to fit.

But, like I said, they fill the hole no problem.

And, with the rear swing away on there, you can't really see them anyway!

 

[ElHefe]

Yep, that was about how far "off" barn doors were on my 76 tub.

 

[antFJ]

check my build thread out.. if you are doing rust repair in that area anyways - rear sill etc. you can just replace them with the earlier model pieces and the doors should line right up like they were meant to

 

[Degnol]

check my build thread out.. if you are doing rust repair in that area anyways - rear sill etc. you can just replace them with the earlier model pieces and the doors should line right up like they were meant to

I think he has an Aqualu tub.

 

[FJsnoozer]

Will can shave the corners and adjust the hinges or drill them in the right area to mount the edges inside the jam.

As you can see if you flush mount them inside the jam, you will have to reshape the corner. I you allow them to rest just outside, you are fine.

The barn door hinge fits the holes of the ambulance door. I using these existing holes for the top hinge, so i only have to drill holes an backing nuts for the lower hinges.

 

[antFJ]

I think he has an Aqualu tub.

LC FREAK has an Aqualu but the OP did not mention he did... Either way something will have to be modified.. but it would be sweet if Aqualu could custom make the rear section for the barn doors

 

[ElHefe]

The "early year" tubs that Aqualu makes have a different sized tub opening, IIRC.

My 76 tub has an opening that is at least an inch too wide. Mounting my barn doors made for an awkward balancing act.

The OP will need to widen the door like FF did. Great idea, btw.

 

[Roberto]

thanks fellas, I just picked up a set so will tinker with them when time comes. I have to source hinges and latches now

R

 

[cbmontgo]

I bought a set of '73 doors and installed them on my '76. I also didn't want to drill the tub, so I filled the old hinge holes on the doors and raised the hinges to where the body hinge holes were and drilled new holes in the doors. Turned out great and fit very well, but the '83 tub may be a little different.

I also moved the license plate to the right side while I was chopping and painting.

 

[FJsnoozer]

thanks fellas, I just picked up a set so will tinker with them when time comes. I have to source hinges and latches now

R

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