The Truth About Hymer Habitation Door Hinges: Myths, Fixes, and Simple Solutions
For owners of classic Hymer motorhomes made up until the mid‑1990s, one of the most common headaches is the habitation door hinge. These aluminium hinges, after decades of use (and often years without proper lubrication), are prone to seizing up or snapping outright.
For years, motorhome owners have shared stories of broken doors, expensive replacements, and various "solutions" ranging from plastic 3D‑printed hinges to hand‑machined aluminium reproductions. But Ron Bentham – a former metalworking engineer and long‑time Hymer owner – argues that none of these options are really necessary.
In fact, he insists the fix is simple, affordable, and reliable.
Why the Original Hinges Fail
Hymer’s habitation door hinges were originally aluminium extrusions. Over time, exposure to the elements and lack of lubrication leads to the hinge pin seizing in its socket. Once this happens, the huge leverage of the habitation door works against the seized joint, and the brittle alloy hinge body cracks or snaps.
Ron warns that many owners don’t even notice their hinge has seized until it’s too late:
“If your door moves, but stops dead when you stop pushing – instead of swinging freely – then a hinge has seized. That needs emergency attention.”
When a hinge does crack, most people choose replacement — but it isn’t the only option. Being aluminium, hinges can sometimes be repaired by a skilled metalworker with aluminium welding facilities (often a case of who you know rather than an everyday retail solution). In less severe cases, owners have managed to extend a hinge’s life by drilling extra screw holes for fresh fixings, or fitting a large washer to spread the load.
Different owners have different levels of skill, tools, and facilities — so while repairs are certainly possible, replacement remains the easier route for most.
The “Special Hymer Hinge” Myth
Because the originals are no longer manufactured, some suppliers stepped in with alternatives:
- 3D printed plastic versions: Lightweight, usually promoted with great enthusiasm online, but rarely proven in the long term. As Ron dryly points out: “The originals were metal. Why replace them with plastic? That’s just pointless.”
- Hand‑machined aluminium replacements: Beautifully made, but prohibitively expensive. Owners frequently report quotes of £100 or more per hinge – and with four hinges required per door, the total is extraordinary.
This inflated market is driven by the perception that Hymer hinges are “special” and cannot easily be replaced. But according to Ron, that simply isn’t true.
“It’s just a hinge. There’s zero reason to pay a hundred quid for it.”
The Common-Sense Fix: Ellbee Caravan Hinges
The closest near‑match for the originals is the humble Ellbee caravan door hinge. These are still readily available online and in caravan parts shops, typically costing under £40 for a full set of four.
What makes them so good?
- They are almost identical in profile and function.
- At most, they require minor modification (a little drilling or adjustment of screw spacing).
- They’re made from metal, just like the Hymer originals.
Some owners report that no modification at all is necessary for a direct swap. Ron himself advises simply buying a spare set at today’s low price, given how cheaply they can be sourced compared to custom-made options.
“At £7 each it’s a no‑brainer,” he says.
Beyond Ellbee – Other Practical Options
While Ellbee hinges are the closest direct replacement, it’s worth noting that many Hymer owners have solved the problem simply by browsing hardware shops and picking from the thousands of different hinges available. As long as the replacement is sturdy enough and allows proper door alignment, there is no magic “Hymer‑only” specification.
One owner even recounts replacing his broken hinge with a simple steel one found in a Moroccan hardware shop. It wasn’t elegant, but it worked.
Preventative Maintenance: Don’t Let It Happen Again
The cheapest solution of all is to avoid hinge failure in the first place. Regular lubrication prevents seizing, which in turn prevents the stress that causes alloy to crack.
Hymer specialist Chris Womble stresses the importance of checking and maintaining hinges before they fail. His top maintenance tips are:
- Check movement: If the door doesn’t swing freely when pushed, at least one hinge is binding.
- Lubricate annually: Remove the hinge pin if possible, clean thoroughly, and lubricate with appropriate grease or penetrating oil.
- If seized: Unhang the door and free the hinge with penetrating fluid. In stubborn cases, use a vice and hammer to work it loose – or even gentle heat with a blowtorch if all else fails.
Conclusion
The Hymer habitation door hinge problem has been overcomplicated for too long. While 3D‑printing enthusiasts and specialist machinists have pushed expensive or experimental solutions, the reality is simple:
- A set of Ellbee caravan door hinges is almost identical to the originals.
- They cost a fraction of custom parts and only require minor tweaks (if any).
- Repairs can be possible for those with access to welding or DIY ingenuity.
- Preventative lubrication and care will ensure many more years of reliable service.
As Ron – who has hands‑on experience and an engineering background – says plainly:
“Don’t pay silly money. Buy Ellbee hinges, modify if necessary, and get on with enjoying your van.”
PHOTO GALLERY - COLLECTED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES
The following photos are of an Ellbee conversion.
A selection of hardware store steel hinges
3D printed hinge - not enough info to recommend or criticise ...
