Door shut-latch broken

Breeang · 06-18-2013, 04:09 AM

Advice please . The trigger on my passenger side door broke off a little while ago, since I rarely have any passengers that was no real problem, I could just open it from the inside as needed until I got around to fixing it. Then a few days ago I was driving a pal of mine and when he got out he yanked on the inside door handle as hard as he could, jumped out and slammed the door shut. Since then I can't open the door at all.
It feels like the handle has become disconnected from the door lock mechanism.
The connecting rod is still attached behind the inside door lever so the problem is inside the door. But how do I get the door open to get inside it? Is there a way to remove the door panel with the door closed without destroying everything? I think that I can remove all the retaining screws except the one at the front/top of the door just above the door hinge (this holds the piece you rest your elbow on when the window is down) You need the door open to access this one

Dublinoh · Dublinoh's Garage

There are some pics in this thread that may help...but I think doing this with door shut is a no go.

door panel removal 1987 door handle paint

Cooper911SC · 06-18-2013, 07:15 AM

Been thinking about your situation and looking at my SC with the door closed.

It seems like it's possible to remove the door panel enough to reach an arm inside and pop the latch.

I think the biggest challenge will be the door top cap piece you have mentioned. Might end up damaging that...

There are 2 5mm cap head allens under there which secure the top of the grab handle. Those need to come out.

Good luck with your conundrum.

Cooper

Breeang · 06-18-2013, 09:54 AM

Thanks guys, I think I am going to have to practice with a mirror and something long and thin. Maybe I'll have a dry run on the other door first so I can get a clear mental image of what to do. I do at least know now that if anything is to be sacrificed it will be the door panel ($$) and not the sill on the top ($$$$$$$).

pete3799 · pete3799's Garage

With the window down and the rubber wiper strip on the outside removed (just pops off) you may be able to hook a coat hanger on the latch and get it open.

Breeang · 06-19-2013, 04:50 AM

pete3799
Good idea, that will be my first attempt. The wife says that I have to have it fixed for the July 4th weekend, she is not into clambering across from the driver's side or climbing over doors like the 'Duke's of Hazzard'.

Breeang · 06-24-2013, 04:50 AM

Success opening the door!.
pete3799 you were correct about being able to hook a coathanger onto the door latch. I just popped off the trim on top of the door by the window, wound down the window and gently edged the glass to one side withe a wooden wedge and there was the door latch mechanism. It opened first try.

Thanks to everyone that gave me suggestions