Abstract: A positioning device for positioning a first member in a desired radial orientation relative to a second member. The positioning device includes a coupling portion for coupling the positioning device to the second member, a contact member for contacting the first member and an adjustment portion for controllably adjusting the distance between the contact member and the coupling portion. The radial orientation of the first member relative to the second member is changed by adjusting the distance between the contact member and the coupling portion. A method for taking dimensional data on a hinged subassembly is also provided.

Abstract: A removable detent mechanism to be utilized with a vehicle door hinge assembly for providing a temporary door check mechanism during painting of the vehicle body and door assembly. The detent mechanism is positioned between the door hinge pin and the vehicle hinge bracket. An interference lobe formed on the detent mechanism is engageable with a portion of the door hinge bracket to generate a detent force during the opening and closing of the door assembly relative to the vehicle body. The removable detent mechanism is provided with local stiffness features which enable adjustment of the detent force.

Abstract: A three diameter hinge pin for a vehicle door hinge assembly including a door bracket and a body pillar bracket. The three diameters include successive large upper diameter, small lower diameter, and an intermediate diameter, wherein the latter diameter permits the hinge pin to drop further downwardly through two openings in the upper legs of two hinge brackets, wherein the openings must closely approximate the pin's large upper diameter, thereby allowing the lower end of the pin to enter the opening in the lower legs of the two brackets, rather than being positioned somewhere above the opening.

Abstract: A vehicle door outside handle housing is mounted in a door panel rectangular opening such that the housing peripheral lip flange portion is in flush contact with the panel outboard surface with the housing main portion inserted in the panel opening. A central hub extends inboard from the housing main portion with its principal axis aligned on the geometric center of the opening. The hub is formed with an external thread for engagement by the internally threaded lead-in collar portion of a piloted nut. A bent spring rod retainer in its unrestrained state is assembled between the inboard surface of the panel and the undersurface of the nut driving head. The spring rod retainer includes a looped central eye formation defining a semi-circular eyelet that is self-aligned on the hub axis and telescopically receives the nut collar. Upon threaded engagement the piloted nut captures the retainer and the housing in the panel opening.