C4 Tech/Performance L98 Corvette and LT1 Corvette Technical Info, Internal Engine, External Engine

Driver's side door lock broken

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Old Feb 15, 2006 | 09:22 AM
  #1  
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Default Driver's side door lock broken

My driver's side door lock wont work for some reason when I use the key in my '91. I can get it to open if i use the keyless or the passenger side automatic lock to unlock it, but just sticking the key in wont do it. Can anyone tell me how difficult it is to replace the cylinder in the door to get it to work? or maybe how much it would cost to have it done by a professional (i want one key to open both doors, so they need to be keyed the same).



Thanks,
CJ
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Old Feb 15, 2006 | 09:27 AM
  #2  
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Try to lubricate it first. Maybe some powered graphite or any oil on the key and insert it and remove it several times
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Old Feb 15, 2006 | 09:53 AM
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Does the key turn in the lock? If it does the problem is that the rod to the lock has slipped out. Just pull the door panel and replace the rod.
Jerris
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Old Feb 15, 2006 | 01:42 PM
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yeah it turns, it just doesnt unlock. do you think i need to replace the rod literally, or just reposition it correctly? I would go check to see if it was broken or just slipped, but Im at work right now.


thanks for the help guys,
CJ
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Old Feb 15, 2006 | 02:40 PM
  #5  
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There is a door lock pawl that connects the rod to the key cylinder. It sounds like your rod has come disconnected from this pawl and thus the key cylinder. If all the parts are there you should be able to reconect it and be done. If not, then you'll need to order replacements.

NOTE: I am not 100% sure of this and I don't have my Helms manual with me right now. I just think I remember this being the way it works.

Somebody want to verify this?
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Old Feb 15, 2006 | 02:47 PM
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Try getting a new key made first. Really... G.M. is known for this issue.
Beats taking the door panel off huh?

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Old Feb 15, 2006 | 03:23 PM
  #7  
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Default Why buy a key?

Originally Posted by edsalinas
Try getting a new key made first. Really... G.M. is known for this issue.
Beats taking the door panel off huh?

If he needed a new key the key would not turn in the lock. Dont waste money on a ney key if the one you have works and turns the lock.


yeah it turns, it just doesnt unlock. do you think i need to replace the rod literally, or just reposition it correctly? I would go check to see if it was broken or just slipped, but Im at work right now.


thanks for the help guys,
CJ


The rod has probably just slipped out of the plastic piece that holds it into the hole. Take off the panel and have a look, if the plastic retainer is broken you can get then from NAPA or Pep Boys, they are not specific to the Corvette and are cheap.

Jerris
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Old Feb 15, 2006 | 08:45 PM
  #8  
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I agree with Jerris. The parts are probably there (may be in bottom of door), just need to assemble correctly. I have pictures of the lock and parts if you need them. SAM
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Old Feb 16, 2006 | 12:43 AM
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...or another possibility is that the c-clip has come off the back of the lock. This clip holds the el. sw. for the alarm as well as a tab that joins the lock to the rod that others are saying may have come off.
A new key will achieve nothing, and I don't think lube will either..
I am sure you will need to remove the trim, and then you can visually see if it is either the rod in question, or a missing c/clip...Either way, there is not much room in there, so be patient...
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Old Feb 16, 2006 | 07:41 AM
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Originally Posted by Jerris
If he needed a new key the key would not turn in the lock. Dont waste money on a ney key if the one you have works and turns the lock.


yeah it turns, it just doesnt unlock. do you think i need to replace the rod literally, or just reposition it correctly? I would go check to see if it was broken or just slipped, but Im at work right now.


thanks for the help guys,
CJ


The rod has probably just slipped out of the plastic piece that holds it into the hole. Take off the panel and have a look, if the plastic retainer is broken you can get then from NAPA or Pep Boys, they are not specific to the Corvette and are cheap.

Jerris
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