1993 Sport Driver Door Latch Problems

[jcan72]

I have an issue with the door latch mechanism...it won't "reset" by itself and I have to wedge my fat little finger to reset it to close the door...
Suggestions?
Thanks,
nube

 

[ChildIdenticant]

you only have to "reset" 1 of the pivoting latches, not both, correct?

 

[jcan72]

correct

 

[ChildIdenticant]

If, when you reset it, it springs into place after a little help, then you can probably fix this by re aligning the door striker ( the part mounted to the body that the 2 latches grab on to). If there is no springy action whatsoever, your latch assembly might require replacement, or at least a new return spring for that latch part. If you do determine realigning the striker might fix the issue, be sure to mark the strikers current position before loosening it. I think having to realign these is common after the striker bushings fall off, leaving it sloppy and not completely engaging with both latches. If your striker bushing is still on,might want to check for damage at the hinge end of the door.

 

[jcan72]

Door is loose at the hinge also...
Lock mechanism does spring into place, and i can see the spring inside the mech. Works about the same as the passenger side but the door isnt loose on the passenger side

 

[RangerX]

Fix the hinge and see if that doesn’t fix the latch issue. The hinge pin commonly wears out and needs to be replaced, and the most used door (driver side) is the common side.

 

[jcan72]

Fix the hinge and see if that doesn’t fix the latch issue. The hinge pin commonly wears out and needs to be replaced, and the most used door (driver side) is the common side.

Will do. Have to youtube it to refresh how to change a hinge. Im way the heck up northern mn and i hope advance, O'Reilly or napa has one...
Thanks bro!

 

[Arne13]

Check up in the Stock first gen. best threads. There is a good how to in there on this. Arne.

 

[jcan72]

Thank you, thank you, thank you! RangerX It was the hinge pin bushings on the lower hinge. Parts store only had 1! Also too more time than I'd rather say because the bitter cold seized my cheap pneumatic hammer so I had to use MacGyver skills to get it cut with a hack saw blade (no handle btw...) But I did persevere... and it closed first try and second and third...

 

[RangerX]

Yup, the bushing wears away, and then the pin starts to wear away!
I used to have a 92 Sport that I had to replace a pin. I was told at the time that it’s even more common on Sports because Sports have a longer and therefore heavier door compared to 4 door Explorers.
Maybe pick up a spare pin when you see one next.
I believe it’s a Dorman part so not too hard to find.

 

[Chris_A.]

I have an issue with the door latch mechanism...it won't "reset" by itself and I have to wedge my fat little finger to reset it to close the door...
Suggestions?
Thanks,
nube

Check your striker bot for the plastic bushing. Replace if not there. You will need to use 3 in one oil, WD-40, or similar to clean out and lubricate the latch. This is not on the books; but, I was taught by my father to do the lubrication every time you go to the car wash, you drive in rain, or once a month. If you do not lubricate the latch, your door handle and electric locks will fail as they become over worked trying to move a rusty or grimey latch. Worst case is it locks you in the vehicle and you climb out.