I've read the thread about replacing the weather striping and restoring the doors ect.. One thing I was wondering though....What exactly cause a door to loose that nice smooth close? Is it the striker being worn or mis-aligned or what? Im sure its caused by alot of things occuring over the years but what is the main thing that really starts off the chain of events?

 

Worn hinges.....

They allow the striker to "hit harder", making more noise.....
Allows the door to sag & possibly rub as they close......


I'd say its a combination, but most of it leading back to worn hinges.

 

Stephen is correct. The hinge pins wear causing a saggy door and striker wear.

Replacing the door weatherstrip will do a number of things.The window sweeps keep moisture out of the door when it rains,old dried out window sweeps also cause drag on the window motor (if you have buzz windows).The window channels or roof rails should be changed too to keep the elements out.

The door to body seals flatten out over time causing wind noise and moisture in the vehicle.

The key to having a rot free car is to keep as much moisture off of it as possible. I don't even wash my car I spray it with a bottle and wipe it clean with a cloth towel.

If you have any questions about seals here's a link to them on our site,I'd be glad to help.

Pontiac Trans AM Weatherstrip