How do I remove a 1930 Town Sedan door latch?

Paul in Colorado

Paul in Colorado

Senior Member
The driver's door latch on my 1930 Briggs Town Sedan has failed, and neither the inside or outside handle will open it, even in the unlocked position. I have managed to get it open, and have removed the outside handle and the screws on the edge of the door. The window molding does not want to come out, even with the screws loose. Where do I go from here?

Paul
 
Remove the door upholstery. The Door Latch Panel is held in place by wood screws on each end.
 
the upholstery door panel is nail on with small finish nail. so be careful removing the panel. it is easy once you remove the door panel.
 
This is a my Town Sedan drivers door. Clean, inspect and lube everything while you're in there. Check the window channels and upper window seal. You don't want to take the door apart very often. :p:p

You may have to carefully pry out the window molding. Go slow...
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You're not going to get the window frame out with the door closed.
If the goal is to get the door open you can remove the upholstery door panel with the window frame in place.
Once you get the door open the window frame should come out.
 
burner31 said:
You're not going to get the window frame out with the door closed.
If the goal is to get the door open you can remove the upholstery door panel with the window frame in place.
Once you get the door open the window frame should come out.
Click to expand...

I believe he said he got the door open in post #1.

I had to remove the window frame in order to remove the trim piece that is at the top of the door panel. The window frame fits tight. It didn't help that someone used weatherstripping to glue in the window felts and some stuck to the frame. Are you certain you have all the screws out? I believe there are 14 screws?

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Yes, the door is open. I was able to use a screwdriver to pry the latch from inside.

I believe all the screws are accounted for. I am hesitant to pry too hard. It is also hard to get anything between the door panel and the frame lip.

Paul
 
Paul in Colorado said:
Yes, the door is open. I was able to use a screwdriver to pry the latch from inside.

I believe all the screws are accounted for. I am hesitant to pry too hard. It is also hard to get anything between the door panel and the frame lip.

Paul
Click to expand...

I used a 2" wide stiff putty knife and worked slowly. I think I got the top to come out and then the rest was easy.
 
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