No More Door Slamming!

[cgsheen1]

I solved this years ago using 3/8" plastic tube.  I'm a Journeyman Plumber, so this is stuff I have lying around practically everywhere - you civilians can get it at any Home Depot, Lowes, Ace Hardware, or any hardware store.  Used to be Poly but now it's probably PEX - it's cheap, plentiful, easy to get, the correct thickness, and easy to cut and install.  It's pretty tough too, but adds a little cushion to the latching mechanism.

 

Just grab a piece of 3/8" tubing, cut about 1/4" off the end (whatever is the width of the oblong lobe), and make a slice down the side.  Spread it out at the slit and you'll have exactly what the OP did in metal above.  Don't take the latch out, just roll it around until you can see the oblong lobe on top (hold it with a screwdriver if you need to) and install the "C" shaped piece of plastic tube on the lobe. Lift the door handle to get the latch back into proper position. Close your door without slamming.

 

I did mine years ago and haven't had a problem. If it breaks or falls off, I'll just get out the utility knife, cut another little piece of tube, and replace it.  If you buy a foot of 3/8" tube at the store, you'll have enough replacements for the rest of your life...  

 

I keep a piece of tube in the car.  I've fixed dozens of doors for the other Datsun guys in town.  When they show up to a meet and are slamming their door, I just cut off another little piece or two.