I understand the pivot points...mostly. How does this design prevent over-extension of the back edge of the door, and thus potential body damage? Would you have to use dual spring loaded hinges with notches like a modern car door? Would a ratcheting mechanism work with a release to close? hmm... I think adding hydraulic (liftgate style) dampers would add complication and not look correct. Maybe a couple of electric motors for a trick push button action would work... Either way, it was done in the past, it can be done today. Neat idea I for one would like to see.
I haven't checked in on this thread in awhile.meanwhile,I stumbled on these images by Jan Stroman.1938 Buick with Nordberg body.Supposedly the mechanism was patented by James young.
Do it if it pleases you, then don't give the nay-sayers a ride. It would be nice to see the doors open, then a hottie wearing ankle sox step out. a'la She's got legs" video.
Well the pantograph doors never eventuated on the 39 Cadillac but the itch hasn’t gone away. Since my divorce and the ensuing inability to touch my Cadillacs for 3 years whilst the property settlement went through the Courts and financial turmoil that it brought about, I played with the boattail project and built up a parts pile, which was cheaper than a therapist and better therapy, for another Model A roadster. It kept me sane over a very difficult time. So a few weeks ago I answered an ad for a dilapidated 39 Packard 120 sedan. Despite the $2000 asking price, which I didn’t have I asked if he’d separate the box for $500. The answer was no..... so I left it. ( I have a fully rebuilt 39 Packard engine scored for $200. It was planned for the boattail. Then I got a text saying the box was mine.... so long as I took the rest of the car. It’s rugged. The body is stuffed. But the chassis is good and the radiator, cowl, guards and trinkets are all retrievable. So suddenly I started the idea of a custom Darrinesque body. The first lament of original Darrin owners is that the doors swing down and great care is needed not to hit the curb with the doors when alighting. So I guess you can see where this is going. I’m working on on a mate’s 260z in his heavy steel fabrication shop where they make buckets for end loaders and tractors. I showed John the hinge design. “piece of piss” was his reply... that’s Aussie slang for easy to do. So I’m gonna line John up to laser cut the bracketry and cowl support and B pillar supports and once I section the g support and cowl 3 inches I’ll be away. Taking on another project is madness, but after the past 4 years of madness that I’ve endured, I know I have to do it.
Playing with my hood and trunk yesterday, I have also hinged the trunk and powered it, see your not the only madman.................................
I knew you had to...if it was the last thing before you die, you were going to do pantograph doors on something! Sure looks like it will work, you've been busy (no text messages?) Will window glass fit all the way down?
I'm interested in seeing it...... If the parking spaces keep getting smaller in my neighborhood this will be a great help
I like the s#$& eating grin at the end that says "see, I told you it could be done, I can do it and that it's cool.". Great job.
Door is skinned and fully operational now. The pantograph hinge allows for a oval shaped door which wouldn’t be conceivable with traditional hinges. The locks placed at either end provide a positive positioning and location of the door and allow easy adjustment. The long door ( over 4 1/2 foot long ) is effortlessly supported throughout it’ travel .
Just came across your thread and I must say you sure made that look easy. Your car and all the hand made components could keep me entertained for a long while. Well done sir!
Found another pic today previously unknown to me . 1939 Renault. I’m assuming it must also be Saoutchik as they held the patent and the armrest detail looks similar to the 1938 Graham
Two other views from the same shoot: With general König in 1944: I've seen the car listed as a 1937, 1938 and 1939, but the GMP is part of a 1937 British registration. The seven digit number in the 1944 pic is a French military number.
The Jalopy Journal
