Lighter Doors?

[nattieleather]

Just wondering if anyone has any thoughts on how to make the doors on a M37 lighter? Want to make the doors removable for the summer time and as I get older those door get heavier and I am looking for ways to make them lighter.

Thanks,
Joe

 

[FrankUSMC]

Joe
Correct me if I am wrong, but the army did make a prototype light weight M37. I am going off what is remaining of my brain housing group here so work with me. If I remember right, they tried making light weight doors out of canvas and metal frames. I seen photos of it some where years ago, might have been in Fred Crimsons' book "US MILITARY VEHICLES".
One of the few, Frank USMC RET

 

[rchalmers3]

Replace the door with a fiberglass replica and zip up clear plastic window?

Rick

 

[nattieleather]

@FrankUSMC. Yes I think they tried making an airborn one that was all aluminum but it didn't pass muster. I am sure I could make a metal frame and canvas/vinyl door, but I want to have a door door for locking it it up and for less than perfect weather. A fiberglass replica door would be an interesting idea, I'm just not to good making fiberglass parts.

 

[rchalmers3]

If you have good, straight hard doors then you have the basis for making molds. In my opinion it's much harder to start from scratch, so I think you are at an advantage having doors.

There are some pretty good Utube tutorials on making fiberglass molds and laying up parts. Have a look before dismissing the idea as being too difficult.

Or, research your area businesses for a low production fiberglass shop to bid the work for you.

Wichever door type you choose, keep us informed and show us your progress.

Rick

 

[FrankUSMC]

Joe
have you thought about getting a 2nd set of doors (Call them the summer doors) and removing the glass? that would take some of the weight off the doors, and still have a lockable truck. Cut some Plexiglas to place in the window slots when you want complete security.
One of the few, Frank USMC RET

 

[just me]

How much money you got? I'll make some carbon fiber doors. Strong, lightweight, expensive as can be.

 

[SturmTyger380]

Why don't you fabricate a wire frame and fit some custom made canvas doors.

 

[nattieleather]

Why don't you fabricate a wire frame and fit some custom made canvas doors.

Weeeell....I said this above "but I want to have a door for locking it up and for less than perfect weather." In other words I want to be able to park the truck close the door, lock it and walk away for a while and when its late fall or early spring I want to be able keep heat in and the elements out.

 

[nattieleather]

How much money you got? I'll make some carbon fiber doors. Strong, lightweight, expensive as can be.

Seems like I have less and less each day.