69 door key problem
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From: walkertown nc
69 door key problem
I have a problem with my drivers door key not being able to move the door latch internal lever into the down position .I have been fiddling with this for some time . I first thought the problem was with the lock and the key . The key was old and worn thin the tab on the lock was worn down where the pawl is attached . I thought if I pressed to hard on the key it would snap so I replaced it but even with new lock and key problem persisted . I removed the latch and cleaned with brake wash lubed with white grease lock seems to work freely reinstalled still the same even with rods disconnected key will not move lever down . Any had this problem ?
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2018
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From: Marietta GA
You probably need to remove the door panel and disconnect all the long RODS going to each of the lock part. Once you have all the rods disconnected, remove all the old grease, use your fingers to move each component. If the inside lock **** moves easily, then I betting it’s the actual door lock that engages the body mounted post. On my 73, the doors lock was worn out (always the drivers side), once it was replaced everything was ok, for a while. Later on the key lock stopped turning when I would “lock/ unlock” the car (strike). I had a locksmith clean the lock and when it broke a second time, went and ordered two new locks with keys. With everything disconnected, you should find the problem. Be sure and take tons of pictures, every parts has to be in the correct orientation, or you will have some sleepless nights.
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From: walkertown nc
Thanks for your input guys . I did install a new lock and I don't see how you could install it upside down . I am not sure I made this clear . I did remove clean and lube the latch and outside the car it appears to work and move freely . I also dropped all the rods so only the lock and latch are in play . NEW lock and key will not push down latch arm it tries , it just doesn't travel far enough and runs out of room to travel or so it appears .
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2018
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From: Marietta GA
Thanks for your input guys . I did install a new lock and I don't see how you could install it upside down . I am not sure I made this clear . I did remove clean and lube the latch and outside the car it appears to work and move freely . I also dropped all the rods so only the lock and latch are in play . NEW lock and key will not push down latch arm it tries , it just doesn't travel far enough and runs out of room to travel or so it appears .
The last time I replaced the key lock, I recall turning the key didn’t move the lever on the door mounted latch/strike mechanism. Even though i took a tone of pictures the key lock was installed wrong. I will try and find the pictures, but you will have to remove the key lock and turn in around. Also, I recall there was a right and left key lock, but then it’s been a year and my memory gets cloudy. I recall it was a bear trying to get the snap bracket
(inside the door) to hold the key lock. I took a picture of the tool (I made) so next time it won’t be so painful. Good Luck
Piece of wood with a HF pry Bar to push the clip on the key lock
Orientation of the key way in the door
Getting ready to push the clip all the way over the key lock. The position of the arm and little shaft on the key lock is critical
On the shaft there is a small clip that turns the arm when you insert and turn the key
Picture of the key lock orientation
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From: mount holly NC
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The pawl is sold as left and right side do you have the correct one on that side?
https://willcoxcorvette.com/catalogs...door+lock+pawl
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From: walkertown nc
re:
Thanks again to both of you . Eli nice pics . The lock set I got is after market and does not have the guide pin for the key so no way to tell correct orientation but I will try turning it 180 . I was pretty sure I hand rt & lt figure out on the locks but maybe I'm wrong & peterbuilt the pawls are not labeled so I mounted them on locks and used the one that appear to line up correctly . I didn't think there was any definitive rt or lt for the locks .Is there? I will pull lock back out today & see if I can figure something out . You don't think the problem is in the latch ?
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2018
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From: Marietta GA
Ed
The lever that locks and unlocks the main door lock should be easily moved with your finger. Connect the rod going to the round interior **** that locks and unlocks the main door lock. If the turning the **** locks and unlocks the main door lock (easily), then you know the problem is with the key lock, and all the other parts are fine.
The lever that locks and unlocks the main door lock should be easily moved with your finger. Connect the rod going to the round interior **** that locks and unlocks the main door lock. If the turning the **** locks and unlocks the main door lock (easily), then you know the problem is with the key lock, and all the other parts are fine.
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Joined: Jan 2004
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From: walkertown nc
re:
So I really appreciate the help Eli I switched the locks and every thing works like new . Some times you need someone else's view to push you in the wright direction . I had decided they other lock was wrong but I was wrong Thanks
Melting Slicks
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From: Marietta GA
It is always a pleasure to help another Forum Member. That is what makes this a great and interesting hobby. The members here are by far the most knowledgeable, helpful, and friendly guys, compared to on any other car forums I frequent.