I am putting my doors back together after a dip and strip. After installing the original Door Latch and Striker Plate the door does not close snug. The door latch connects to the striker plate and you have to push the door latch release lever to open the door, however the door rattles loosely. Weather strip is installed and in the correct location. Prior to this venture I always had to slam the door to a tight close but at that time my glass was crack (and this time no matter how hard I slam it will not close snug). I have new glass but will not install them until this subject is solved. Inspection of the latch reveils that the star (best way to describe the part) has some play. Not sure it has too much or if this is normal. The door striker wedge does not have too much wear, to my suprise. I have tried various alignments to the door attaching hardware with no change. I am not sure if my Latch and Striker are out of limits but before I go spend $180 (LMC Truck) for new Latch and Striker I want to ask the experts.

Thanks,
Stephen

 

The striker has alot of adjustment to it. Move the striker inward until it closes flush.
brian...

And welcome to FTE.

 

The star is supposed to have play rotationally, but not in the up/down or sideways directions.

Loosen the three screws securing the striker plate to the jamb, move the striker inboard slightly, then tighten the screws. This should reduce the rattling for a snugger door fit. Repeat as necessary until the fit is how you want. You may need to readjust the striker after the weatherstrip relaxes a bit.

You do not need new strikers, etc.

The Shop Manual has a very good description of the door adjusting process. They are now available from Mid Fifty.

 

Thanks, I will take your suggestions to the garage.

Stephen

 

One other suggestion, the striker could be adjusted too far inboard also, my doors will latch loosely and then catch another time for a tight fit.

 

Good point Jeff.
brian...