Replacing entry door

[mattyj858]

hey guys, still restoring the Moneybago" and need to replace the entry door due to previous owner sideswipping something. I found a 73 Brave door in good condition, door and frame. Question, is it better to remove the old door and frame and install the replacement as a "pre hung door and frame" or use the old frame and and hang the new door on the old hinges? I am leaning towards frame and door. If so I am assuming I should use butle tape around the entire frame?



If I should use the old frame, I can't seem to figure out how to remove the hinges. The hinge has two pointed cones top and bottom of the hinge, do the come apart?

[SLEETH]

complete unit would  be  best

[TerryH]

Below is my opinion only:
Pics would help.
However, a door and frame set is just that - a set. They do and have worked together and were made for each other. Go with both.
Butyl tape definitely between the frame and coach exterior. This is your primary seal. Keep the tape back 1/8" from the edge to provide a gap for the secondary seal.
Secondary seal is caulking of your choice (we all have our preferences). Mask the frame and mask the coach, leaving enough room for a bead of caulking. Caulk the joint, then tool the caulk in with your finger. Push hard, you are forcing the caulk into the gap. Tooling is very important.
Finish the bead off by dipping your finger in soapy water and lightly smoothing out the bead. Remove the masking tape, pulling it towards the bead rather than away from it. Finish again with soapy water, only as required.
Masking tape does not like to follow a curve. I use masking tape for straight runs and electrical tape for the curves.
As for the hinges, if you are talking about a 'cone' in the top and bottom of the hinge pin they are likely pressed on and the hinge leaf welded to the door and coach framing.
Again, go with the set.
Good luck.

[mattyj858]

Awesome thank you. I figured the set is best, just worries about any hidden issues I might face, but seems pretty straight forward. Great tip about soapy water, wish the previous owner knew this trick. He was a bit over zealous with the calking.

Appreciate everyone's help as I bring this pile back to life 😄

[LJ-TJ]

It's all good. The hing pins are screwed in from the back of the frame.What ever you do be careful when taking the old door out that you don't brake them. They seem to be a week spot in the door and brake easy. Keep them for spares. Hm?