Unable to open drivers door.

Tiny
DAUT59
  • MEMBER
  • 1965 CHEVROLET CHEVELLE
I am unable to open the drivers door. It pops slightly like it would normally, but still seems to be partially latched. I suspect the problem is the door latch, which I know normally requires the door to be open when replacing the latch. I have removed the door panel which was quite difficult with the door closed. The door latch isn't completely visible due to being obstructed by the window track which also seems to require having the door open for removal.
PLEASE HELP !
Thursday, March 25th, 2010 AT 11:06 PM

7 Replies

Tiny
MERLIN2021
  • MECHANIC
  • 17,250 POSTS
Kinda old, so I cant look up a picture for you, but the lock button has a rod that runs to the latch, pull up on that rod and open the door, one of the rods may have bent, or a retaining clip came(rusted) off. Iff that doent work, reach over to the latch itself, and flick th small lever up. Then open the door
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Friday, March 26th, 2010 AT 1:48 PM
Tiny
DAUT59
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Merlin,
Thank you for your reply. I tried what you recommended regarding pulling up on the rod, but I believe that is ok since when you push in on the handle button the door does pop like it is opening but still seems to catch on someting which I believe is the latch. I'm not sure what you are referring to on what I can reach over to on the latch itself to release.
Thank you,
Dave
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Friday, March 26th, 2010 AT 2:07 PM
Tiny
MERLIN2021
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So when you pull up on the lock button it operates normally? You can feel no difference than usual? Then possibly the rod from the handle to the latch has bent or came off?
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Saturday, March 27th, 2010 AT 7:09 AM
Tiny
DOODYRWH
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  • 1 POST
I have a 65 el camino same problem will open one click inner handle does the same unlatches one catch only help have interior out as last guy said did were a body shop and I cant get in or out. Lock works open inside handle opens one click and unlocks, hmmm, puzzled.
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Monday, May 17th, 2021 AT 1:42 PM
Tiny
KEN L
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It sounds like the door latch is worn out I would get a new unit and install it.
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Wednesday, May 19th, 2021 AT 12:40 PM
Tiny
DOODYRWH
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I am awaiting the new latch. I was looking for a way to open without ruining his door. I cannot get it open to install the new one.
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Friday, May 21st, 2021 AT 4:04 PM
Tiny
KEN L
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You will need to get inside the door with a cutting wheel and start cutting the latch apart. I takes time but it's the only way when the latch fails. This will keep the door intact.
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Friday, May 21st, 2021 AT 4:05 PM

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