Stuck Door Lock
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 20
Likes: 0
From: Spartanburg SC
Stuck Door Lock
I have a 1981 'vette with power door locks. The driver side door won't open. I'm pretty sure the actuator is stuck. I'm also pretty sure it is blowing a fuse too. The key won't open it and the manual lock button (shaft or whatever you call it) doesn't move either. The manual door opener does move but does not release the lock. Is there a way to open it without taking the inner door panel off? Maybe some kind of slim jim device or something???
Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 5,236
Likes: 898
From: Myrtle Beach SC
It could be a variety of things that are contributing. Here's an article I wrote that describes problems and how to fix. After 30 years, the prudent thing to do is go in and refresh the mechanisms, check the boot on the power door lock actuator, relube etc.
Door Lock Repair
Door Lock Repair
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 20
Likes: 0
From: Spartanburg SC
It could be a variety of things that are contributing. Here's an article I wrote that describes problems and how to fix. After 30 years, the prudent thing to do is go in and refresh the mechanisms, check the boot on the power door lock actuator, relube etc.
Door Lock Repair
Door Lock Repair
What a great article
It is perfect for what I'm about to do. Thanks a lot.Rod
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 1999
Posts: 3,030
Likes: 17
From: White Pine / Dandridge TN
I also wanted to say thanks for the article. I just received used door lock actuators yesterday to install in my car. Your article will greatly assist in my installation.
Jim
Jim
Advanced
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 56
Likes: 0
From: Sacramento ca
I just went through this on the passenger side. I did a search and that was what brought me here to this forum. It was another thread on the subject, but It introduced me to these forums. I banged my head for hours before I found the answer here. Another thread gave a great tip about cleaning the other side with gumout to remove old glue turned grease and re-lubing to avoid issues on that side. I'm glad I found a great forum!
Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 5,236
Likes: 898
From: Myrtle Beach SC
Glad to hear you found it helpful. Compare those used actuators with your originals before installing. If the boot is busted, the rod gets corroded and will not slide when you activate the switch. For the aggravation involved I would probably go with new or NOS but enjoy the project. Great sense of accomplishment when completed.
