Fix floppy mirror
I have fixed 3 sets of floppy mirrors in the past month. In all 3 cases the shaft, on which the adjuster tries to snug up the mirror adjustment, was RUSTED in place, and that's WHY the mirrors can't be adjusted and why they flop like Dumbo's ears. I did the following:
- remove mirrors.
- unscrew the bottom nut, remove the washers, & the spring.
- soak the adjustment parts in penetrating oil for a few days.
- use a rubber hammer to BEAT the bottom of the swivel off the shaft (maybe cleaning up the shaft with corse sandpaper will help).
- use sandpaper to clean-up the shaft and sliding part.
- IMPORTANT: lubricate the assembly prior to re-assembly (I used Krown.com anti-rust oil)
- maybe re-paint the mirrors to match your van :-)
- re-assemble, re-tighten, re-mount the mirrors.
As I said, I've done this will 3 sets in the past month and I offered a set to my mechanic FREE just for the parts swap. He nearly fell over in shock of a customer making this offer TO him.
I can post photos if anyone desires. I will also offer to sell a set re-vitalized of mirrors to anyone who is willing to sent their Dumbo mirrors to me in return.
I do believe it was Chris Turner who suggested this mirror 'fix'. If it was not Chris, then my appologies to the correct author.
Malcolm (Halifax, NS)
Another popular fix for floppy mirror syndrome is the insertion of a thin rubber washer in the ball and socket joint. Disassemble as above, but but add a rubber washer between the "ball" of the mirror mount and the "socket" of the mirror arm. Originally posted on Samba, in this thread.
Originally posted to the vanagon list: [1]
