Expert: William Forster - 11/23/2009

Question
Dear William,
I have a 1987 Suburban 1500, 4WD, 180 K miles, running well.  Problem is that the hinges on the rear gate are rusted out.  The cross member that the gate hinges are bolted to is also rusted badly.  The longtidinal frame members are in good condition.  Since the gate hinges are a bit hard to access, I was thinking of removing the gate and replacing it with barn doors.  Is this a feasible thing to do please?  I have made a rough measurement and gone to a wrecking yard and the barn doors would seem to fit.  Your comments will be appreciated.
Thanks,
Mike

Answer
Mike, I don't really know 100% for sure- but i doubt you will find this an easy task. You might check with aftermarket sources and see if a replacement hinge/sill panel is available. I bet there is. I realize that the gate hinges are hard to access- imagine trying to add hinges and doors to a vehicle that are different that what it was from the factory? It's going to be a big job either way. You might want to have a professional give a a price on fixing it. Bill