2003 sliding door replacement / compatibility

[mcmctalk]

There is a giant dent / scratch on the sliding door. I thought about sanding it down and paint it at Maaco or something, the price they quoted me was $800 though. So instead, I'm thinking about looking for a sliding door at the junk yard.

So far I found a 1999 Astro of similar color to my van (2003 Astro) for about $250. Are the doors generally compatible? And does the keys and power lock etc switch over as well? From what I can tell, the door looks like it's just held together with tracks on top and bottom.

Thanks

mc

[sadglad]

There were some changes in the door mounts/brackets and the van body at some point that you should consider when shopping for doors. It's not just a simple gen 1 vs. gen 2 issue. I posted some info and pics back here.
viewtopic.php?f=11&t=15040
I'm not saying it's not possible to swap but for some years there may be complications and mixing/matching parts from different years.

I got a slider door for less than $40 at a pick-n-pull half price day. I have not gotten around to putting it in so I can't offer much more advice.

[Leeann_93]

Yep, it's really easy.

Once you get the new door in hand, just switch the lock cylinder from one to the other.

We did this on my '99, but the van I got the door from was also a '99 (pick-n-pull, I paid $50).

[AstroWill]

I got a slider door for less than $40 at a pick-n-pull half price day. I have not gotten around to putting it in so I can't offer much more advice.

I need to find some rear doors(white) on a half price day

[Corsemoto]

When I replaced the slider on my '97, I picked one up at the j/y and it installed fine. Of course, I don't remember what year it was from, I think it was within a year or so either way. Also, it helps if you don't have to do it by yourself but it can be done.

[Leeann_93]

^ what he said.

Taking it off can be done by yourself (I did it), but it really helps to have another set of hands while installing it.

[mcmctalk]

You guys are awesome, will go back to pick and pull tomorrow to try to find the closest year, ideally same color so I don't have to paint a giant door.

Thanks again!

mc

[Alxcargo]

Hi everyone. I need to replace the slider door on my 1997 AWD Astrovan. I have never done this before and I have very limited mechanical ability. I guess I'm asking for step by strp instructions on how to take the old door off and put a new slider door on. I'm totally lost here. please help.
Thanks!
Alx

[Leeann_93]

Unbolt, remove, rebolt.

Seriously, that's it. Remove the interior panel on the door, unbolt the brackets.

Have someone else there to hold the door while you unbolt the last set (there are three) if you don't have a fancy, door holder thingy.

My husband and I did it in the junkyard in 15 mins or so, then the same back home.

[Alxcargo]

Great!!!! Thank you so much Leanne!