Installing Chrome Ferrules on 1926-1937 GM Cars & Trucks
By Stephen Kassis
Installing chrome door & trunk handle ferrules on early Chevrolet cars & trucks requires using a special installation tool. The tool expands the rear of the ferrule outward against the handle opening until it is tight. Use Ferrule Installation Tool (C-662) to install outside door and trunk handle chrome ferrules on all GM passenger cars from 1926 through 1937 and on truck door handles from 1932 through 1937. Note: In 1938 the ferrule was changed to a new design with a rubber sleeve on the outside. From 1938 onward, a tool was not required to install the door ferrule as the rubber sleeve held it in place.
When installing ferrules onto fresh paint, you must use caution or the paint may be damaged. We offer a gasket that will fit under our C-111 ferrule. Though it’s not an original item, it will help protect your paint. Order part CV-641 (gasket for ferrule C-111).
Adjust the tool without the rubber grommet on the inside of the ferrule. The grommet is easily installed after the ferrule is in place. To adjust, simply turn the round gauging nut in or out as needed. The point of the tool should not reach the far side of the ferrule. Do the adjustment with the ferrule and tool in your hands. Adjust the depth so that the blade point is 1/32″ to 1/16″ short of the end of the ferrule.
Inspect the hole opening for wood rot or rust. If the opening is badly rotted in this area, the ferrule may not hold securely. There should only be 1/8″ to 1/4″ clearance between the ferrule and the door. The tool will be pushing the lip of the ferrule outward toward the inner edge of the opening.
Some ferrules have a tapered spacer installed behind them. If your ferrule requires this spacer, be sure to place the spacer onto the ferrule first. Make sure that the taper is fit onto the body properly before doing the installation.
Install the gasket (CV-641 – optional), if used, on the backside of the ferrule or tapered spacer and insert the ferrule into the hole in the sheet metal. Put the snout of the tool into the center hole of the ferrule. Using steady pressure toward the sheet metal, squeeze and release the handle. Rotate tool right or left 90 to 120 degrees and repeat the process. Keep moving tool to gradually and uniformly spread the back side of the ferrule. It will eventually start to tighten against the metal or wood. Make sure it is snug but do not over-tighten or you may damage the paint or paint gasket. Remove the tool and install the grommet (70-9) on the inside lip of the ferrule. Now install the handle and you are done.
