Door latch mechanism issue

[trout_hound]

The door striker/latch mechanism on my 72 240's door doesnt spring back like it should. Before I take it all apart to see what's wrong, I was wondering if anyone else had ever had that problem and fixed it, so I can get a heads up on what parts I might need. A guy has a whole door handle to latch mechanism for sale on e-bay, but its from a 76, and I'm not sure if the strikers match up.

Thanks for the help.

DT

[NissanMaster]

WD-40 helped my door locks & latches work great when they were sticking.

I'd give it a try first.

[240znz]

It is more likely full of dust and dirt that have collected over the past 35 years.

Remove the latching assembly and soak is in a parts cleaner or your favourite solvent. Dry it well and regrease it.

The return spring on mine was stretched so I replaced it with a similar unit.

There is a small rubber cap (looks like a 5mm squid ring) that fits over the locking selector. This stops the clunking sound when you unlock the door. If if hasn't perished, vanished or disolved by the solvent, try and save it so you can find a new one.

[trout_hound]

Thanks, I'll try that when the temperatures get warm enough to work out in the car port (10 below right now.. brrr)

[bpilati]

My passenger door is like that. What 240znz said is probably the best option.