Ok I crashed my van

I had a low speed encounter with a hickory tree with the driver side edge of the front bumper .
Some dents in the front and it crumpled the door and distorted the door frame. Dents [i] can fix but does anyone have any idea how to realign the door frame . I can see what needs to be done just not sure how to do it. I know this is long shot but thought i'd through it out there. Thanks
Bob

Please PM me for a pic as I don't know how to insert one if you can help

dang. harder jerk in the opposite direction...hitch back up to that hickory.

Bob check your messages I sent you a PM.

That Sucks One of the BIG issues with any early is they don't like a front end crash usually it only takes one good hit..Depending how bad it is the Door frame is the hardest part to get straight and will be a task to get the new door to line up right...any pictures.??? Good Luck...Joe...  

I like to use 2x4s and a bottle jack. Place, and duct tape to hold it in place, a 2x4 on the back side of the frame to spread out the pressure, and use the jack to push a 2x4 against the front part of the frame. Move the frame a little at a time and measure using the other door to get measurements. Other adjustments can be done with a BFH (big flippin hammer) and a smaller 2x4 block.
Worked good for me, hope this helps,
Chris

My bottle jack won't work horiozontally if I understand correctly what you are saying .
Thanks

This is sort of a rat van so if can get a door that lines up enough to close properly the lines don't have to be perfect. Thanks

posted for dulcimerbob. This is out of my league.

Out of mine too probably. If I can get it straight . I'll need a driver door and window . Any ideas? Thanks

If you get it worked out, I may be able to help you with the door. Possibly window too.
Where are you located?

Georgia , 80mi NE of Atlanta 30528 is my zip
I have been to Ohio to Amish country near there?

When you are using a jack, Put pressure on the bent part and then tap with a hammer. You will be suprized how much it will move when the stress is shocked by hammer. You don't have to hit very hard. The metal will have some "memory". Repeat as nessasary, a little at a time.

Hey Bob, if your bottle jack won't work horizontally, a screw jack, like from a mustang, will work. Like Dan said, a little at a time. You can use the same push point to push the headlight bucket and nose out as well. Just cut 2x4s to fit. Slow ,easy and light hammer and dolly. Take lots of measurements and be careful not to push too far. The bumper and door are toast, so you will need replacements. The lower panel can be pushed from below, using the axle as a push point. Some of the parts may not straighten out and the areas that show may need filler but try to keep the filler to a minimum. The foot box may need some welding after it is back in shape from what I see in the pic.
Chris

Thanks for all the replies. I have to put a new floor in anyway so I literally have my work cut out for me   I have had offers to buy it but as aggravating as some projects are (and this ain't my first rodeo) it keeps me out of the liquor store and the nursing home.    I'll keep you posted.
SOB sweet old bob

Early vans are like being married! A love-hate relationship!!!!

I got the door open so I can see the damage inside . I'll send a pic. It ain't pretty .   

I can post it for you dulcimer bob

Camera's dead . Tried a horozontal bottle jack . No luck . I think I am over my head and will sell the van. Thanks for all the help.

dulcimerbob wrote:My bottle jack won't work horiozontally  if I understand correctly what you are saying .
Thanks

When jacking horizontally, make sure the pump side is towards the ground. If it still does not work, place the jack vertically and check the fluid level.