I'm replacing the door hinge pins in 71.....the tops of the pins in there now are flared to keep from falling out, but it looks like the flare is going to make it hard to get the pin out. What's the easiest way to get the existing pins out? Drill? Hacksaw? Also, I realize that if the new pins came flared I couldn't get them through the holes.....but what's the best way to flare them, or would a little tack weld be better? Sorry if this is so basic, it's pathetic - feel free to laugh at me. smile.gif Thanks for your help.

Don't feel bad, I'm waiting for the answer. I have to do mine.

I think the pins drive out from the bottom, not from the flare side. I may be wrong, just looked at a door hinge pin kit on OPG and looks like they only flared at one end, and the bottom is same size as main shaft.

https://www.opgi.com/product.asp?ProdCode=99L0176&topcatid=249&grpcode=10981&yearrange=1972&chapterid=627

Normally, you grind the stake (flare, I think is what you called it) off the BOTTOM of the pin and knock it out FROM the bottom. Then, after you are done replacing it all, put the pin in the way it came out, and re-stake it with a punch or something. Some pin kits are neat in that they use E-clips where the stake would be. SO no staking involved, just pop on the E clip.

Be careful getting that little spring off the hinges.

Thanks All. Rodeo - yes, that's the kit. It's like Buzzbomb says, the pins were "staked" after they were put in. Sounds like grinding will take them off - figures that I DON't have a darn grinder. It must be time to get one. smile.gif
Wish I asked this question before purchase - I would have tried to purchase a kit with e-clips. I guess I can look for the e-clips tomorrow. HEY, Isn't that where the moon gets in front of the sun? har har har....Thanks very much for your help.

any GM deealer should stock pin retainers. its a little clip that you drive over the pin after instalation

9 hours later.....the driver's side door is done. I found some e-clips at the local hardware store. What a difference the new pins make. Clearance all around is all equal now. Door opens and closes almost like new. Something's goofy with the post that the door latches onto though. And of course, there's one goof.....one hinge bolt won't go in all the way....gonna have to figure out the deal. I'm gonna wait till I do the body/paint to do the passengar door - when I can take off the front fender. Thanks again for your help.