front door lock mechanism

[91explorer1009]

91 explorer, power locks. About a month ago when I hit the unlock button the plunger did not open. I hit my keyless entry again but it was still stuck down, so I had to open it with the key. Once I tried it from the inside and opened and closed it a few times it unstuck itself and worked. I know its not the switch because it works and I hear it clicking every time I hit it from the inside. It works once I use it for a while but when it sits overnight or for a few days the plunger get stuck. I am forced to open the door from the inside pull handle to get out or the opposite, use the key to get in. I have sprayed lubricant inside the latch in the door where it hits the striker. When it is stuck and cant free itself, I look into the hole and a rectangular piece of metal is what looks to be stuck. I can see it move again once I do it manually. What can this be and can I fix it myself? What type of part am I looking at and how much? Thanks guys and sorry for the length.

 

[91explorer1009]

bump...

 

[ma96782]

Possibly its just the COLD. Grease the rods and friction points and use graphite in the key hole (keep it slick).

My CHEVY was acting up recently cause of the cold weather. When it's warm it works like a charm.

Aloha, Mark

 

[91explorer1009]

bump...i dont think its really the cold, even on a fairly mild day 60 deg. it still was doing it, does this mean to look for a new actuator, is that the , "power" for the electric locks???