Door Lock Issue

[Rex Smith]

I can’t open the drivers door of my ‘30 coupe from the outside. The slide lock seems to be engaged, even though it’s slid all the way to the unlocked position. If I remove the two screws from the slide lock, allowing me to move it even further in the unlocked direction, I am then able to turn the handle. This tells me that I probably need to grind some metal off the lock (or off of something). However, it’s not clear what to grind, since I can’t see inside the door to see where the conflict is. I assume someone on this list is familiar enough with this to tell me what to grind (or bend?)

 

[rocket1]

brattons sells new door latches with the locking mech.$34.00

 

[Gary WA]

I can’t open the drivers door of my ‘30 coupe from the outside. The slide lock seems to be engaged, even though it’s slid all the way to the unlocked position. If I remove the two screws from the slide lock, allowing me to move it even further in the unlocked direction, I am then able to turn the handle. This tells me that I probably need to grind some metal off the lock (or off of something). However, it’s not clear what to grind, since I can’t see inside the door to see where the conflict is. I assume someone on this list is familiar enough with this to tell me what to grind (or bend?)

I assume you have the panel removed? I have no coupe but others! same locking mech. so why cant you see it!? Use a mirror and flashlight if behind something.?? How long has it been like this or just happen? Red circle one may have gone up over bracket?

 

[Rex Smith]

Thanks Gary, a little more investigation is required on my part. I see you're at Whidbey Island. Brings back memories. I was in a Navy patrol squadron at NAS Whidbey in the '60s.

 

[Rex Smith]

Got it. I took the mechanism out and bent the lock tang just a little. Works fine now.

 

[Gary WA]

Got it. I took the mechanism out and bent the lock tang just a little. Works fine now.

Great!