Drilled holes either side of fracture, bent a small piece of coat hanger into a C, affixed with a little two part epoxy. I'm hoping this simple solution can save some people out there a little time and money.

 

I'm curious to see how long it holds up. Did you bend the metal in the shape of a hog ring?

 

I tried, but the armature for the connecting rod made it impossible to maneuver. So I had to nip the ends just long enough to be same thickness as the plate I was repairing. The two-part was added just to reduce play in the repair rod. It isn't coming out as it catches under said armature. I just didn't want it rubbing

 

I think it's a good fix that will buy someone the time to search for another door handle. It may last a year or more but unfortunately it will break again. My guess is on the right. Right where the JB Weld/ epoxy stops. Not trying to be negative it's just after owning mine for 23 years I'm on I think my 5th drivers side handle. Well I say 5th but technically 3rd as I have done repairs with JB weld only to have them break somewhere else. So I've re used a couple more than once. I may actually see if any of mine can be repaired with your method to buy some more time after my current one breaks before I have to use my last unbroken spare handle. Junkyard supply has dried up here.

 

Has anyone welded the pot metal ? my pasenger side is toast again .. 10th one in 15 years..

 

I wonder if the handles break like this because you have to lift on the handle while closing the door to lock?