In a message dated 99-05-14 18:13:52 EDT, lpaulsen@CMCFLEX.COM writes:

<< What exactly changed on the sliding doors between these years.  The reason
I
 ask is because, as I write this the body shop working on my van just bought
 a sliding door off an '83 and they are installing it on my '86.  I would
 like to know of any difference before I go in there and pay for the work.
 Thanks, any help appreciated.
  >>

you better call your body shop ASAP and tell them to send that door back.
there is NO WAY a '83 slider door will fit your '86 van.
sliding doors:
'80-'84
'85-'91

chris