MONTE CARLO Door Latch - Need Help!

[1988SS]

I replaced the driver's door outside handle. (1988 Monte SS). The spring in the handle had broken so it was kinda loose. The door opened and closed as it should.

After replacing the door handle.....now the door will not latch closed. On the passenger side I noticed that if you push the metal "catch" back it will lock/click in place and you have to pull the inside door handle to allow it to release. On the driver door the metal catch does not lock in place when you push it back (see pictures).

Has my driver side latch failed or am I doing something stupid.

Thanks!

 

[69hurstolds]

Dafuq?

It LOOKS like it's normal. But if it's not locking once it gets into the lock position, then either the linkage is bent/misadjusted not allowing it to latch, or the catch latch isn't snapping into place. Maybe a spring is broken that keeps the latch closed? It's been a good minute since I've messed with these. There's 4 position hook ups on this thing. 1) inside door handle on the open mouth side of the latch. 2) Top position is the locking pawl for the inside pull lock 3) outside locking rod connection from the key lock pawl (and also any linkage from power door lock plunger) and 4) the outside handle connection.

Unfortunately, there's no rebuilding these, at least not with backyard shop skills. In ANY event, it appears this little joker will have to come out.

If you want to buy new GM, it'll have to be 3rd party as it's been discontinued. Naturally.

Latest p/n for driver side, LH, is 16608235 (passenger or RH side is 16608234)

 

[1988SS]

Thanks for the reply. Funny is that it was working when I dug in and replaced the outside handle. I opened and closed the door several times while I was working on it. Then when I went to button things up.....no working. Seems odd that it decided to die at that time but that's what looks like happened.

Are the repros decent?

 

[jcelk]

probably not adjusted right as a test disconect the outside door handle rod and then without closing the door see if the striker latches i would use a screwdriver

 

[1988SS]

probably not adjusted right as a test disconect the outside door handle rod and then without closing the door see if the striker latches i would use a screwdriver

Thanks for the input. The rod from the outside door handle isn't putting any pressure on the latch. You can wiggle is slightly. It only really interacts with the latch when you pull up on the outside door handle. I don't think disconnecting will affect anything. Does it sound like it is adjusted correctly?

 

[78Delta88]

Been a while since I messed with these. First try some wd40. I just went through similar issue with a Ford Escort. Pulled everything out, soaked in solvent, then sprayed heavy with WD40. Now everything works as it should.

 

[ELCAM]

Make sure it is completely unlocked, you might have moved that lever without noticing.

 

[jcelk]

i second the wd 40