1955 reproduction door handles do not fit

[oldbird]

I'm new here, so I hope this post has not been done before... I'm replacing the interior door handles for this Bird and have an issue. I bought them from Obsolete Ford in Oklahoma City. I'm sure these are the same handles that everyone sells but they don't fit. the center hole with the spline is too shallow and will not allow the spring clip to reach the groove in the post. I measured the depth and found the new ones are 3/32" shallower than the originals. I called Obsolete for help and they will refund, but I have to ship on my dime. Has anyone else seen this issue?

Frank

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[Tom Alpers]

What about drilling it deeper if it's only a small amount?

 

[oldbird]

I thought about that, but there is another issue. The back of the handle should have a groove to accept the retaining clip. The groove is only on the sides of the raised boss and should have a groove on the top of the boss, if that makes sense. This handle may fit later years, but it certainly does not fit the 55. I found two oem handles that look presentable, at least as good as the rest of the car. I was about to order a $450 seat cover set from Obsolete Parts, but that order will now go to a different vendor... Obsolete also wanted a 20% restocking fee on a part that doesn't fit.

Frank

 

[doug7740]

I bought the handles for my 55 from CASCO.

doug7740
1955 Thunderbird Blue