can't open door
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 107
Likes: 0
From: Cabot AR
can't open door
I have an 81, the passenger door will not release, seems to be locked, have tried to unlock and go through window to release lock,,,,any ideas? getting desperate.
thanks
Bill
thanks
Bill
Instructor
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 228
Likes: 1
From: Warwick New York
I have had the same problem with my 79. The only way i was able to open the door was to lower the window and take a bar push past the plastic lock cover and jimmy the springs in the lock mechanism while turning the key until it released the lock. It did work eventually and then I took the lock lubed it up and now it is working fine. Good luck
Instructor
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 103
Likes: 2
From: Eastern Shore MD
i had the same problem on my 75 when i got it. Called the PO to verify the problem as it worked during the test drive. He said to put the window down, get a can of white grease aerosal and spray it on the door rod & internal handle mechanism. Work the handle many times as you are spraying the grease. Then get inside the car and push out with your shoulder as you hold down the handle. Mine has worked ever since.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 2,106
Likes: 0
In case anyone else has this problem make sure your handle is popped up fully. The handle linkage binds with the door lock linkage and prevents the door from being unlocked. I got mine open by undoing a coat hanger and making it into a V, sliding it around the lock linkage(verify with the other side) and then yank up real hard. Then I took the door panel off and lubricated everything nice and good.
