Some bast@rds tried to steal my "Betsy" last night :crazy: ... '98 Silverado Z-71 3-door, now the driver side door handle is busted up. Lock seems okay but the whole assembly is wobbly, including the lock cylinder. I found a replacement handle at Autozone for $34.00. Question: How hard is it to change this handle out, and install the new one. I guess I need to pull the inside panel...(I really hate those)...any help or pointers would be appreciated! :help: Thanks Guys!!

The only advice I can offer is to make sure you get replacements for all the plastic "screws" or "clips" inside the door panel while you're at the parts store. It'll make it easier to re-install and know for a fact that you won't have problems with it popping back off later, or whatever.

Oh yeah, and take your time, otherwise its possible to break, or at least crack, that door panel. Good luck.

The only problem I had was the stupid door crash beam is in the way. Make sure your lock is snnapped in securly before you bolt everything up or you'll have to go back in again and redo it (ask me how I know :rolleyes: ). I had a bit of fun with the clips for the rods that hook to the handle, but it is just a patience thing.

When you pull the handle out, leave the lock cylinder attached to the door. There will be a prong at teh bottom holding it to the handle. Also, I would spend teh extra $9 and get an OEM handle. The aftermarket handles are kinda crappy, IMO.