Can I R&R door latch w/o removing window?

[THE73Z]

I need to replace my door latch mechanism and the manual says I need to remove the window sash which means removing the window. I can see that the mechanism is buried behind the window sash/track, but I really don't want to remove the window and sash if I don't have to.

I think I know my fate, but I'm hoping someone has succeded in sliding the mechanism behind that track by loosening up the sash and getting really lucky.

Normally I wouldn't care about removing a window but the whole door is skinned with sound proofing which I am now having to cut through and everything is in A+ condition appearance wise. I'll flip if I scratch the window.

It's ok to lie to me.

Thanks, Z

[Dtsnlvrs]

You can remove the sash w/o removing the window, it is a bit tricky, but can be done...the tricky part is getting it all lined up afterwards

[THE73Z]

Ok. That gives me a little hope. Thanks. Z

[theianmonster]

I just took out my sash yesterday and the window was fine, just have it rolled all the way up.

[Arne]

And I had my driver's window out yesterday, it was very easy and nothing to be afraid of.

[THE73Z]

YES.

It IS possible.

I loosened the sash on the latch side of the door, and while pulling on the bottom of the sash I was able to fight the old latch out and the new one in. No harm done, the window still works fine.

Several times it seemed like I would fail and then something would just fall into place. The hardest part was actually getting the rod off the outer door handle. When I finally tried the panel tool, it came right off.

I tore the hell out of my arm squeezing it through a little hole to pull on the sash. For the install I got the great idea to tie some string to the bottom of the sash so I wouldn't have reach in as far.

Struggle, struggle, struggle, struggle, struggle, struggle, struggle... did it just go in? Yeah baby!

Time to adjust the striker and go enjoy the nice weather.

Thanks, Z