88 pickup DLX - I have looseness in my driver side top door hinge. Seems to be causing creaking noises when I drive. Probably the shims are worn out?

What's the best solution, please:

Reshim the existing hinge
Replace the whole hinge
Turn up the radio

Please give me your esteemed advice. Thank you very much, in advance.

Mike

 

Not shims but bushings, which are usually phosphor-bronze (self-lubricating). The driver's door top hinge bushings are usually the first to wear out. No need to replace the whole hinge, as the hinge bodies themselves aren't subject to wear like the bushings are.
I'd only replace the entire hinge body if it's very rusted or bent.
Search Google or Ebay for "1988 toyota pickup door hinge pin kit" and you'll see what you need. Any of the hinge kits on Ebay from Thailand are good quality. They will look like this:



You didn't mention if there is any "slop" in the hinge, just "looseness" & creaking noise. If there is no "slop" in the bushings just hit it with some good quality white lithium grease & that should stop the creaking.
If there is "slop" in the bushings & you're planning on keeping the truck, Go ahead & replace the bushings, and the pin, if it's worn as well.

If you've never done this job before or just want some more info, here is a good video on it: