Adjusting '82 passenger door
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Senior User
Joined: May 2001
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Adjusting '82 passenger door
Lately the passenger door on my '82 Econoline had been getting hard and harder to latch properly. The last time I closed it I had to slam it shut like I was mad at it. if I slammed it ay harder i might jut start breaking glass.
Is it possible to adjust the latching mechanism so it closes easier?
Is it possible to adjust the latching mechanism so it closes easier?
Fleet Owner
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 21,253
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From: Reynoldsburg, Ohio
Chances are your 27 year old latches are wearing out-----not much adjusting there sorry to say.
If you have to slam the door that hard and it doesn't drop or sag once opened it wouldn't appear to be the hinges although it wouldn't hurt to check them as well.
The strike on the door jamb might show signs of wear, perhaps a notch being worn into it from the latch or hinges causing misalignment between the parts.
Without seeing this in operation its tough to really say but my first guess would be the latch itself.
If you have to slam the door that hard and it doesn't drop or sag once opened it wouldn't appear to be the hinges although it wouldn't hurt to check them as well.
The strike on the door jamb might show signs of wear, perhaps a notch being worn into it from the latch or hinges causing misalignment between the parts.
Without seeing this in operation its tough to really say but my first guess would be the latch itself.
Postmaster
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 3,560
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not sure, but the first thing i would to is loosen the post on the frame (strike?), move it out about 1/8" tighten it, and try closing your door then. sometimes they move a little by themselves, especially when the door is slammed too hard too many times
Postmaster
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 3,560
Likes: 1
not sure, but the first thing i would to is loosen the post on the frame (strike?), move it out about 1/8" tighten it, and try closing your door then. sometimes they move a little by themselves, especially when the door is slammed too hard too many times
Elder User
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 884
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From: Rockport, IN
You would be amazed at how much a little Liquid Wrench lubricant could do to help you out. I've used that stuff on tailgate and door latches for years, and it works quite well. Of course, it won't fix an alignment issue, but if everything is aligned properly the latch may just need some lubricating.
