Window Crank handle clearance

[fp2112]

My '78 Spider came with pristine door panels with one very annoying exception. Previous owner cut 5.25" speaker holes which would be great except the stock window cranks hit the speaker grill (yes I have tried speakers with extremely thin grills). A shorter window crank may do the trick. Has anyone had this problem? Does anyone have any suggestions? Thanks!

[dmwhiteoak]

I'm in the same exact boat. I was thinking of something cut from stainless to put over the holes. I don't need speakers there anyway.

[Wheel]

I had the same problem years ago with a 78 mustang. I ended up using a shorter window crank. It was harder to crank the window up, but it was do-able. I can't remember where I got it, but probably found it searching a wrecker's yard.

[mPedro08]

Can you indent, then perhaps refinish/paint the speaker grill just in the one corner?

[baltobernie]

Off the subject, but related: When installing window cranks, orient them so that the handle is near noon with the window in your typical position (mine's almost always Down), so you don't keep kicking the handle as you exit.

[4uall]

is it possible to put in a type of spacer?

[manoa matt]

"is it possible to put in a type of spacer?"

There should be a black plastic escushion plate between the handle and the door card. It might help to push the handle out for slightly more clearance.

[fp2112]

Thanks for all of the advice. I have tried all of the above (except for shaving a portion of the grill as that will be a last ditch effort.) My current plan is to try to recess the speaker and grill into the door panel by cutting away the backboard and foam leaving only the vinyl. If all goes as planned the speaker will be mounted as close to the metal portion of the door panel as possible and the extra 1/4" will afford me the clearance I need. Otherwise I am going to search for shorter window cranks.