My driver side door latch has a bit of a hitch when I try to open my door... It hangs up and doesn't really want to open... I have to push it in than pull it out a bit to get it to open up... Any ideas? is there a way to repair/manufacturer it? or do I need to replace it? '74 maverick btw...
There are connecting rods between the latch and the release button / handles. They can get a bit bent over time and need adjusting (bending back into place). Also, there are bushings and clips where they attach that can break or come loose. You will need to get the door panel off and get a good look in there to figure out what is going wrong. Need to add: Those rods get out of alignment when the mechanisms get stiff from lack of lube or in winter when everything gets stiff. So lube it up real good when you are inside the door.
worn hinge pins have these symptoms also. to check the pins...with the door open, lift up on the door handle.
I just opened it up and there's a part right behind the button that changes direction of the button to pull on that latch mechanism... it's loose instead of secure like my passenger side is.
Got it fixed... just had to loosen the outer door handle, pull it out a little and re-screw the bracket back on it...