01 Explorer- Cant get drivers door open

[marcus1]

Been having trouble with the power lock opening the drivers door
for some time.
Did the twist tie trick a couple times, but would only last a month or
so before the tie broke.

Yesterday the inside handle got stuck in the open position, so
I purchased a new one and installed it.
Seemed to be working OK, but after opening the door a few times,
it now won't open at all. Got the interior panel off, but still can't get
the door to open.
Believe the actuator is shot too.

Question # 1 - Is there a trick to opening the door with a screwdriver etc
from the inside with the door panel removed?

#2 - Are back door actuators the same as the front?

Any help would be appreciated, been strugglin with this for days.

Thanks,

Mark

 

[ghosttrain2]

the actuator may be the same, but the rod to the latch is more than likely different. Had a similat problem with my drivers door, fiddled with the latch inside the door, and finally got it open. Found a broken spring for one of the bear claws had broke, and was jammed in the latch mechanism.

sorry for the blurry image.

 

[michael mccoy]

I had same problem with drivers door on my 2000 Explorer Sport.
Ford wanted to replace actuator and a mechanic I know suggested spraying WD-40 into the keyhole and the lock mechanism. I did it 3 times within 2 weeks and havent had a problem since.

 

[DoraDaExplora]

@ Ghosttrain2, Gday Mate.. I have the same issue with 3 of my doors. This ****ty little 5cent spring has gone in them, making it hard to open, One of the doors has totaly pooped itself.... I probably broke it in shear frustration.

My question (s) is: WHere can I get this spring and would you know the part number?

I live in Australia. I have been to FOrd. ( In Australia FOrd has decided to disown the Explorers ) I took parts diagram in, asked if they could show me the spring etc. Didnt want too. Asked if I could buy spring buy itself, the reply was: who knows.... So i told them to stick it up the tail pipe.

Also: Could anyone recomend a good parts suplier in the US? Someone will ship overseas.

Thank you in advance to Ghost or anyone else who replies...