83-88 ranger door handle repairs

[robber364]

Hey y'all, I figured I'd post this since it's an issue I have had for a while

I have a few first gen rangers, and at some point or another all of them have had the issue with the door grab handle breaking at the front mounting screw. I also have a 3D printer and a license of Solidworks, so I was bound to try and fix it sooner or later. I threw together a little cup you can press into the screw recess of the forward handle mount hole, either to allow you to re-attach a broken handle or to reinforce one that is still together. I printed mine out of black PETG which has seemed to hold up well enough so far, you can use whatever you have though be advised that PLA might melt in a hot car. I have attached some pics here, but I also linked the thingiverse page below so y'all can download it. this didn't take too much effort obviously, but I figured if you had a printer and a first gen it might save you a little trouble

TL;DR: first gen door handle fix

 

[Shadowrider6661]

Thats a nice fix, would it help if you were to add a washer also ? It's been a few years since I've worked on an older vehicle, but I seem to remember adding a washer. It was before they had 3D printers, I just realized how old I am, thanks for that! Just kidding.

 

[robber364]

I tried adding a washer first, but if the plastic separates from the foam like mine did the washer can still pull through. the walls on this thing helped prevent that, and if need be you can glue it into the handle

 

[SenorNoob]

I have exactly the same problem. I've been considering (different) replacement handles.

Any chance you'd wanna print and sell a few of these?

 

[robber364]

well, I have only had mine installed for less than a year and I don't feel super comfortable charging people for something that might break in a year or so. i'd rather get more miles on them. that said, if you DM me an address I could probably send a few your way, just cover shipping or something

 

[SenorNoob]

I'm sure anyone here would understand if they didn't work out. But considering the (lack of) options for the first gens, I'd certainly pay for a couple. Seems like they could be good preventative maintenance as well.