Get my door open
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Feb 2020
Posts: 29
Likes: 3
From: Rosharon, TX
Get my door open
When I got my barn find 77 neither door would open but at least the drivers door panel was off. I’ve replaced the mechanism on it and works fine.
but now I’m working on the passengers side and can’t get the dang thing open. Anyone know a trick?
but now I’m working on the passengers side and can’t get the dang thing open. Anyone know a trick?
Pro
Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 570
Likes: 65
From: Sebastian,FL
Just went thru this, not sure how you’ll get the door panel off without ruining it. Search door won’t open on here or google and you will get some good posts with pictures. It will involve putting the window down and a long screwdriver. I also have a 77 and the worst part was working around the plastic shield that is in there but once you see it in pictures it is actually pretty easy
Pro
Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 570
Likes: 65
From: Sebastian,FL
I was able to work around the plastic guard without cutting it. I think it was the write up by Willcox in there tech tips that actually helped me most as I was able to see the actual lever on the latch in their write up and then while looking at my latch make sense of where I needed to be. The first time took a bit but once you get it I found that it’s terrifying how quickly someone could get in your car that knows what they are doing
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Melting Slicks
Joined: Dec 2014
Posts: 2,786
Likes: 2,332
From: Central UT
Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 8,812
Likes: 2,029
From: eastern NC
You can get past the plastic guard with a screwdriver. Just work it until you break it off, it can definitely be done. Had to do it on a '72. You won't miss the plastic guard at all. The pic above was what I needed to see how to do it. Use a light, work it a bit, and you won't need to worry about the panel because you'll get the door open. Then figure out what's needed and buy a new lock mechanism from Ernie if you need. Good luck!
I like to remove the entire latch assembly and clean it thoroughly of all the old grease and grit that accumulates in the latch assembly over the years. Once it is thoroughly clean manipulate it locked and unlocked a few times to satisfy yourself it functions easily and smoothly. Re-lube the assembly (I like to use white lithium grease) and reinstall it in the door. Connect all of the linkage and while keeping the door open, latch and unlock the assembly a few times to be sure everything functions well before closing the door and trying it. Take a few minutes to further adjust the linkage so that moving the door handles exerts the maximum amount of movement on the latch mechanism. Any play in the linkage will reduce the amount of movement at the latch and can prevent the latch from releasing.
Good luck... GUSTO