The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Interiors exterior door lock on a '49

Alright everyone, I realize this may be a stupid question...but, why does my '49 GMC only have an exterior lock on the passenger side? I do realize this is how it was originally, but WHY? am I the only one this thinks it's nonsense? if anything, shouldn't it only need one, but on the drivers side?

Actually, there is (was) a reason they were done that way. Back when these trucks were new, most parking was on the curb, rather than a parking lot. In most states, it was illegal to exit the vehicle from the door on the street side (safety issue), so you exit the vehicle on the curb side. So there was only really a need for an outside lock on the passenger side.

however for those trucks that luckily manage to get to countries where we drive on the left the door lock is in the correct position
good for us

thats very interesting, makes sense, but i never would have guessed it.

i'm assuming it's not a big deal to swap the lock itself to the drivers door? or is it harder than it looks?.....

Its no big deal, but the key now goes in up-side down. I believe some suppliers have lock set for both doors. Maybe both would be right side up then? Correct me if I'm wrong.

I have also heard another reason is when the trucks were built that it was custom for men to open the door for their wives, significant other, and so they would unlock and open the door for them and they would reach over to unlock the driver's door.