I'm looking for some grab handles for the A-pillars of my '98 van, like these:




I've seen pictures of vans with those, so I think they must've been a stock option?
Where can I get those for a reasonable price?

 

Those were added in model year 2003 and forward---stock from the factory.

They're not necessarily easily added, do cost a lot if using OEM parts---you'd need the handles themselves, attaching hardware, finish caps and the A-Pillar trim panels too.

After you have those parts the A-Pillars need modified to accept the factory attaching hardware---they're bolted on. This is where things get tricky as you're working so very close to the windshield---a bit tough to drill and modify the pillar with it still in place.

There are a few aftermarket options, mostly more industrial or utility looking but much easier to install. The key to this being a safe finished project is using hardware up to the task. I've used slotted body Rivet nuts before but never subjected them to the sort of loading this type grab handle has to withstand.

Not sure this is all that helpful but its what I know up to this point.

 

That gives me a good starting point. So no need for me to look for the OEM stuff and have them imported for a lot of $$$ when the A-pillars have to be modified anyway.
The windshield will be out and replaced as soon as it gets warmer anyway due to some stone chips and the windshield frame needs to get some rust spots fixed, so perfect time to drill some holes and set some 8mm nutserts with backing plates. I could then mount some handles out of a domestic truck from the salvage yard.

 

Yes---your approach would be very sound IMHO. I'd not use anything less than 10mm bolts though---8mm would be a bit small for safe installation and use. Almost any sort of grab handle will work, the major points being it sits close enough to the pillar to not obstruct forward or side views out the W/S and yet still be easy to find in a hurry.

While the W/S is out and you're fixing rust pay careful attention to the upper corners---repair and reinforce that area. The roof is welded to the A-Pillars and over time that joint can loosen, the seam sealer losing contact causing leaks and allowing rust to form, completely out of sight until it erupts through the exterior paint. Your W/S installer should already know about this weak area but if not have them place a small extra bit of urethane adhesive in the corners before setting the W/S in place.

Once the W/S has sat still for at least 24 hours and with A-Pillar trim already out check for water leaks all the way around it. Start at the bottom, slowly working your way up the A-Pillars before moving across the roof. The trim can and does hide water running behind them before it exits under the dash but under the floor covering as well. It can leak for years without notice, first indication something is wrong is your foot falls through the floor boards.

Hope this helps Karsten!

 

Thanks for the hints!
I've already discovered a spot on the drivers side where the gutter ends and the sealing is broken open. That's one of the reasons I want to take the W/S out.
Sadly, not one auto glass guy here in Germany really knows about the specific problems of American cars, they're just too rare here. The guy who does the glass work for me is a friend of mine who has his shop right beside mine, so I'll have full supervision

 

That's good to have a glassman whose a friend and will allow your micro-managing errr I mean "supervision".

I'm glad to help advise you on the W/S install. When you get a chance ask your friend what brand autoglass installation materials he uses--I'm assuming its some derivation of Sika?

 

He uses the Würth system as far as I know.
He's a young guy with a masters degree and a technician degree in automotive running his one man shop in the second year and is specialized on VW V10 TDI's and such. He's really good at all the computer and modern stuff and let me use his shop if I need a car lift. In compensation I teach him oldschool car technician stuff, i.e. carbs, ignition tuning and such which I learned 25-30 yrs ago and help him out with tools he does not yet have. So, for both of us, it's a win-win situation.

 

Just to add........

I got a drivers side from a Pick-n-Pull off a newer van, and installed on on my '92 E350,

I trimmed, or cut-out the base on the OEM A-pillar trim, and attached it with the OEM screws, after pre-drilling. It works great, and use it ever time I get into the van, and really need it after a long day, saves pulling on the steering wheel which it Not good for the column bearings.

 

What type screws or fasteners were originally used? I assumed they were of the bolt and nut or threaded plate somewhere along the inner A-Pillar?

But yes these have great utility and I've grown accustomed to using them myself. Even with homemade running boards they're an aid and do save the steering column from taking our big American butts abuse!

 

They not only help you get in and out, but also save the upholstery from some wear as you slide in or out, since you can lift your tuckus up over the fabric and the seat.

I'm not sure why they even made this type of van without a grab handle, but I'm sure glad that my van has them.

 

I did this project couple years ago, and I'm thinking that the OEM's had a machine screw into a nut-insert in the A-pillar?

Recalling.........I remember trimming the plastic trim, re-installed the trim, set the handle in the trimmed holes, and used some self drilling/tapping #14 screws into the A-pillar, which is quite sturdy to begin with.

The new handle will not fit the profile of the older '90 era trim, But practicality over beauty works in this case

Another reason I did the handle, this is after I re-built the steering column with new bearings, to eliminate the need to re-built as often the steering wheel/grab handle thing.

 

Agree on the usefulness of the grab handles. My '02 has a handle on the passenger side but the grab handle on the driver's side is usually called a "steering wheel"....

My mild conversion has some minimal running boards (not the giant "suction cup" models) and I have to say that I use them every time I get in or out of the van. The factory door sill step is in a weird place.

Good luck with the project.

George