The GMC Jimmy was first introduced in 1983. The 2001 GMC Jimmy was equipped with a 4.3-liter V-6, capable of producing 190-horsepower and 250 foot-pounds of torque. The 2001 Jimmy was available in both two- and four-door models. The hinges can wear out, become rusted or become corroded. When this happens replacement is the only option for the hinges. Replacing the driver's door hinges on the 2001 Jimmy should take approximately two hours, even if you have never done this type of work.
Open the driver's door on the Jimmy to the farthest point it will open. Set two floor jacks beneath the door, and set towels or rags on both of the jacks. Raise the floor jacks until they are set directly against the underside of the door. Do not press up on the door, but use the jacks as if they are shelves.
Remove the upper door hinge from the door first, using a 3/8-inch drive ratchet and socket to remove the mounting bolts from the door. Hold the door in your second hand to stabilize the door, and assure that the door is rested on the jacks firmly. If the door is not stabilized on the jacks, reinsert the door hinge bolts to hold the door while you readjust the jacks. Remove the upper door hinge only when you are sure the door is secured.
Step outside of the Jimmy and move to the outer side of the door. Remove the upper hinge bolts from the door frame next, using a 3/8-inch drive ratchet and socket along with a 3-inch (or longer) extension. Adding an extension between the ratchet and socket will allow you greater reach between the door skin and the door frame. The extension will ensure that you can remove the bolts without hitting or damaging the door skin. Remove the upper door frame hinge bolts completely from the frame.
Install the new door upper door hinge onto the door frame, and start the mounting bolts by hand, standing between the door and the truck. Move your body into position on the outside of the Jimmy and tighten the upper door frame mounting bolts, using a 3/8-inch drive ratchet and socket with a 3-inch (or longer) extension. Turn the bolts until they are completely tightened onto the door frame.
Step in between the door and the truck and install the upper door hinge. Tighten the upper hinge bolts through the hinge and into the door, using a 3/8-inch drive ratchet and socket. Tightening the door bolts will help align the door. Turn the bolts until they are firmly tightened to the door.
Remove the lower hinge bolts from the door first, using a 3/8-inch drive ratchet and socket. Turn the bolts until you can remove them by hand, using your second hand to hold the door in place. Make sure the door is secure on the jacks before you release it. Move to the outside of the door. Remove the lower hinge bolts from the door frame, using a 3/8-inch drive ratchet and socket along with a 3-inch extension. Remove the mounting bolts and then the lower door hinge completely from the Jimmy.
Install the new lower door hinge onto the door frame, standing between the door and the Jimmy. Use your hands to start the mounting bolts into the door frame. Move yourself around to the outside of the vehicle. Tighten the lower door frame mounting bolts with a 3/8-inch drive ratchet and socket, along with a 3-inch extension. Move back around the door and install the lower door hinge mounting bolts. Tighten the lower door hinge bolts with a 3/8-inch drive ratchet and socket.
Lower the jacks from the bottom of the driver's door. Test the alignment of the driver's door by gently shutting the door. Hold the outside door handle so that the door does not latch. If the door is not aligned properly, slightly loosen the door hinges one at a time and readjust the door alignment. Tighten the door hinges completely once you have confirmed that the door is properly aligned.
Install white lithium grease onto both the new upper and lower door hinges. Use a tube of the grease to thoroughly coat the hinges. Swing the door open and shut to test for fitting and to make sure the new hinges do not squeak.
