Help- door latch broke HOW TO REMOVE & REPLACE???

[meyek91974]

'99 Edie Bauer. Front passenger door.
When opening the door there was a "click" and now the door will not close/latch.

The two levers in the door that spread open when opening the door and close/pinch together on striker bolt when closing g the door are stuck in the closed position with the door open. I tried using a screw driver and handle pull to pop them back open but no dice.

I pulled off the door panel, have taken out the mounting screws, unplugged electric plugs, and there I'm stuck.
I can't get it out as it's attached to door handle bar, door lock bar, outer door handle bar and the hook for power locks.

I can't see how to get these bars/rods off as they have a z-bend and WTHeck???
As I want to remove power electric stuff anyhow, in such a tight space how do I detach power door lock???

Is there a write up up on door anatomy remove n replace? ??

Help please. I have to get to work

 

[swshawaii]

Did you try flushing the latch mechanism and lubricating thoroughly?
Very common reason for binding and sticking. Service ALL five latches.

HOW TO - Remove and replace door latch assembly | Ford Explorer ...

 

[meyek91974]

Bullocks! I spent so much time trying to disassemble or remove/replace that I overlooked the plainly obvious.
Thank you. Really, thanks.
It now opens and closes and locks smoothly as lubricated silk now that I have put so much lithium grease and penetrating lubricant and WD-40 and anything else that I can get done in that lock