1950 Chevy Suburban Buildup - Hagan Hidden Hinges

Electronic Access
To create a clean and smooth complexion on our '50 Chevy Suburban dubbed Project "Sublime," we decided to shave the door handles and the external rear barn-door hinges. By removing the door handles, we eliminated external access to Sublime's spacious interior. To remedy the situation, a phone call was made to The Hoffman Group AutoLoc. We ordered a pair of Bear Claw latches and installation kits, AutoLoc's adjustable power solenoids, and door poppers.

To replace the full-fisted factory rear door hinges, we contacted the folks at Hagan Street Rod Necessities in New Bremen, Ohio, and placed an order for their large hidden-hinge kit. We were confident that replacing the 60-year-old factory door hinges, latches, and strikers with new and improved Hagan and AutoLoc components would extend Sublime's accessibility. Today's advanced AutoLoc electric door solenoids and poppers allowed us the custom touch of shaving the front and rear-door handles.

After inserting a fresh memory card and batteries into my camera, I followed along as Dan Dowdy of Street Rods by Dowdy installed the Hagan hidden-hinges, Bear Claw door latches and AutoLoc solenoids and door poppers.

Hagan Street Rod Necessities hidden-hinge kits come complete with hinge pockets, hinges, and door mounting brackets.
Hagan Street Rod Necessities hidden-hinge kits come complete with hinge pockets, hinges, a
After holes were cut into the rear barn-door casings to house the heavy-duty Hagan hidden door hinges and mounting pockets, the units were inserted flush into the holes and welded into place.
After holes were cut into the rear barn-door casings to house the heavy-duty Hagan hidden
The inboard Hagan door hinges were aligned and then secured to the inner door panels. They would be trimmed later.
The inboard Hagan door hinges were aligned and then secured to the inner door panels. They

The AutoLoc adjustable door poppers will allow the doors to be popped open for easy access.
The AutoLoc adjustable door poppers will allow the doors to be popped open for easy access
The AutoLoc door popper was then dropped into position and secured with two Phillip head screws.
The AutoLoc door popper was then dropped into position and secured with two Phillip head s
In case of any electrical power failure, a panic L-rod was welded onto the end of the AutoLoc door popper. The AutoLoc solenoid cable was then linked to the AutoLoc door popper. Notice the small aluminum wheel to eliminate the cable slack.
In case of any electrical power failure, a panic L-rod was welded onto the end of the Auto

We accomplished our goal of a smooth, clean rear end. The shaved rear-door handle and hidden Hagan rear door hinges created a nice clean round rear end.
We accomplished our goal of a smooth, clean rear end. The shaved rear-door handle and hidd
The AutoLoc Solenoid and Bear Claw latch and striker will allow the driver and passenger doors to be easily activated and opened.
The AutoLoc Solenoid and Bear Claw latch and striker will allow the driver and passenger d
Dan Dowdy used a thin cutting disc to cut along the penciled line of the latch panel.