1963 Door Lock Issue

[Jack Y.]

I checked the archives but did not see this issue. The driver door lock will only unlock but not lock. It only turns 90 degree not 180. The lock has been lubed with graphite. The same key work correctly on the passenger door. Tumblers???

Thanks!

[Harry S.]

Re: 1963 Door Lock Issue

Suggestion, Disconnect the arm from the lock to the door locking mechanism then give it a try. If the lock turns 180 then check the door in the pillar area.

[Gary B.]

1963 Door Lock Issue

Jack,

Door and ignition locks are of the side-bar type and they can, in fact, stop working in one direction. Inside a side-bar lock there is a tumbler retainer plate that covers the six tumblers. That retainer plate is crimped in at both ends, but along the long sides of the retainer plate it is not tied down and if one mid-side gets a little raised the lock won't turn in one direction. So, the problem could indeed be inside the lock.

Gary

[Jack Y.]

Re: 1963 Door Lock Issue

Thanks, I had the lock out and was testing it before I connected it to the rod. I'll re-read the shop manual to see if I can disassemble it. The crimping does not sound encouraging.

Thanks again!

[Gary B.]

1963 Door Lock Issue

Jack,

The difficulty with door locks is the un-crimping and re-crimping of the face cap. I know of no way to remove the face cap and then put it back on and make it look perfect again.

Gary