Any cheaper alternative/door brake fix?

[pschuyler]

I know that I can buy an E34 door brake fix kit from KMS for $35 (21 + ship), but I wanted to see if anyone had a more creative cheaper alternative as I would like to do this to all four doors, the drivers front is just starting to show wear.

Any hardware store fixes?

I have heard of maybe using some washer behind the Torx bolts, but that seems to be just marginal improvement.

Your creative thoughts?

[strad]

Cut your own reinforcement out of thick metal stock? I mean that's really the best solution to the problem. The load needs to be spread out over a wide area.

I wouldn't worry about the other three doors unless you use them as often as you use your driver's door.

[cmgreensr]

Just spend the $35 and fix the door BEFORE it happens. I WISH I knew about that plate before mine ripped out. Caused all kind of hell!

[Elekta]

You could steal the door brake kit... cmon, what's cheaper than $35? I can't weld so that's $35, plus an hour from my favorite welder. That could cost me $70 or 12 beers and some company and $40... or a big favor (carrying heavy welded projects around the shop getting supremely dirty)