I visited my truck the other day (unfortunately, it is not at home) and checked the hinges. Seems to me, that there is relatively little movement from the hinges. They may not be the problem I thought they were, at least with regard to the door not opening properly.

Instead, IS that the outer door handle button is not causing the latch to release without help. As suggested, the release rod needs to be adjusted with an Allen Wrench.

To test, I opened the door, then closed the latch mechanism by hand/with my fingers. When I tried to release the latch with the Button, pushing all the way in it would not release/open.

There is an ID plate riveted to the inner door from the Utility Box company (truck originally had a utility box bed) that covers the adjustment access hole. I will drill out the rivets, pull the plate and make the rod adjustment.

Thanks for all the replies, particularly from Jim (Demon) for the heads up on the button adjustment.