Outer door handle install questions

[79 USA 1]

Just going to throw this out there,
Measure the length of the door handle. The 78 up should be about 5 5/8 end to end. 73-77 while looking the same measure out to about 6 3/8. Physically the attachment points are the same and fit in the door opening but the stop is much thicker and the handle longer to fit the curvature of the 73-77 body. You may be able to carefully file the stop (Red arrow) which will move the rest point closer to the body. Photo's below are of handles from my 86 El Camino (Top) and the bottom from a 73 Chevelle Laguna. Again just throwing this out there.

 

[Tony1968]

Still working on the issue. Thanks for all the replies. Before I continue I have a question about installing the mirrors. I'm assuming they have to go in Before the glass? Is this correct or is there enough room to install them with windows rolled all the way down???

 

[UC645]

You can install them with the glass in, but (in my experience at least) it’s a pain. Take the screws out of the portion door weather strip at the top, have the window all the way up and be prepared for some awkward contortions. No need for the contortions without the glass in though.

 

[Supercharged111]

Yes there is a plastic gasket that goes under the handle.

https://www.opgi.com/gaskets-seals/weatherstripping-rubber-details/door-handle-lock-gasket-kit-outside2/gasket-73-88-a-g-body-door-handle-outer-l240872.html

Available lots of places, just an example.

Anyone have a pic of these installed? This is yet another thing my car is missing.

 

[Tony1968]

Anyone have a pic of these installed? This is yet another thing my car is missing.

Here. I don't even know how you would remove or install without breaking them

 

[Tony1968]

Is there any way to tighten these mirrors? I don't believe they would stay adjusted as I can hold the base and with a slight flick of my wrist they flop. I was going to strip/paint them. Am I beating a dead horse?