How difficult is it to replace a rear door on a '63 sedan?

[studeclunker]

So how difficult is it to replace the centre post and rear door, repair the damage to the rear door frame and re-hang (a replacement to) a crushed door? Would I be able to accomplish any of this on my own? Are the Centre posts available for these cars or do I have to scavenge one from a donor? Does anyone know if Studebaker International has these doors? I seem to have the impression that SASCO had them... Is it safe to assume that SI would now have them in stock?

This is the subject patient involved. Would this kind of damage bend the frame? Other than obvious bending, how would I tell if the frame is tweaked? I'm not afraid of a project car. After all, every one of my Studebakers are. It would be nice to have one that had a decent paint job. However, I don't wish to get in over my head, as it were.

[StudeRich]

Ron, I would also think they would not be a big seller and still be in stock, so a Call to Susan, Vanessa, Crystal or maybe even Manager Jim, is required to find out about "South Bend" stocked items.

It is not big deal to just replace a Door, but the "B" Pillar is kind of a big deal because of the accurate "Fit" to the floor and doors that is required.

[rockne10]

Yeah, that door is toast! And the "B" pillar is going to need tweaked. Some years back I came across a NOS "B" pillar for the '47-'52 models at the swap meet in York. No one ever needed one and the guy was tired of hauling it around so I got it for $15. That's to say, no doubt there is one for a Lark out there somewhere but, you pretty much need to stumble on it.
I would think an experienced shop that is up to a challenge, like the one I use, and not just interested in insurance work, would take maybe an hour to bring the pillar back to alignment. Your experience may vary.

[Warren Webb]

The "C" pillar appears to also have damage. I would secure the car & using the damaged door as a clamp, make a pull as close to the impact area as possible. It may or may not pull the "C" pillar due to the design of the striker/latch assembly which would probably pull out of the striker before much pressure was applied. Pulling the body is not something that can be done "at home" but would require a bench type system like a Chief-EZ-Liner or the minimum a floor mount/post system. Too bad your not around this area anymore Ron. I have access to a Chief.

[studeclunker]

Be careful Warren. I have a son in Riverside still...

[Warren Webb]

LOL.... your the one to be careful! I may even have a door! Do I smell "road trip"???

[candbstudebakers]

Ron I have a door and a B post but not the C hay that sounds good Band C but then I am Cand B.