unable to lock/unlock door

[Slant83cab]

I went to lock my car yesterday and the passenger won't lock or unlock. No sounds from the actuator. I am unable to rotate the knob or use the key. With great force, I can "lock" the knob but it springs back to unlock (luckily) Any ideas before a door rip-apart?

[ckmaggie]

I had same problem w my '86. Took the door apart and and removed entire door handle. Found that the lock cylinder was all gummed up from the years. Took apart and cleaned it up and she worked like new.

Not a difficult job just need to keep track of part and how handle comes apart. Good luck.

Chris

[safecracker]

If the key turns hard and the inside lock turns hard, it is because something in the latch assembly has not returned to it's full position. In order for the latch to lock, the inner mechanism must be in its proper internal position for the blocking mechanism to lock. For instance if the trigger of the outside handle is not fully back or the mechanism that is driven by the trigger is not fully back, the blocking mechanism in the latch can't move to block the latch. Sometimes this problem is solved by lubricating the moving parts from the inside of door.

[Slant83cab]

thanks..I'll do the door rip-apart tomorrow!!! I'll also check the actuator with a volt tester to make sure that power is getting there as well

[safecracker]

To demonstrate what I am talking about, on your drivers door with door closed, pull the trigger partially (not enough to open the door) and try turning key to lock. This should cause a similar scenario. Phil

[Slant83cab]

Phil.. I just tried that. I was able to lock and unlock the other door while squeezing the trigger partially, and even fully. I am suspecting either a jam of some sort or perhaps the actuator for the lock is broken (or getting no power) in the unlock position, preventing the lock from rotating. This is my line of thinking since I can rotate the lock with tremendous force. I'll keep everone posted. I'm sure this has happened to alot of us.

[jgporsche]

I had problems with my door locks. Took the actuator apart, was unable to get it back together, it’s plastic. I was in a hurry didn't troubleshoot it right. Bought another and had the same problem. It turned out to be the control unit. I believe I saw troubleshooting procedures somewhere on this board. As in check for power here vs shot gunning it like I did. Good Luck.

[safecracker]

Sorry, bad info, I just tried it on my door locks and it doesn't block it. Most designs of door latches would create this problem, I have seen it on many other cars. I still feel your problem is within the latch though. Phil

[Slant83cab]

Phil..I'm opening her up now

[Slant83cab]

UPDATE..upon disconnecting the actuator, the lock works fine, both manually and with the key. The alarm still works on manual..BAD actuator!!! Thanks