The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Paint and Body Shop New door mechanisms

Guys, looks like I need new door mechanisms. This winter, my doors don't work well anymore. I'll go around a corner and the door will suddenly fly open, and then it's like things are frozen inside and it's very hard to relatch. Sometimes it will and sometimes it won't. Otherwise my 52 GMC 3/4 ton runs fine. The striker plates are also so worn that they don't allow the door to fully close anymore.

Who has a good source for latches and striker plates? Any suggestions?

Thanks.

Have you tried re-adjusting the striker plates? Then the door hinges? Most after marketers like Jim Carter sell replacement parts.

Also when the door flies open the latch mechanism will usually be in the first catch position. Make sure it is fully open before you slam it shut again. First I would remove and clean all the parts and apply a good lubricant in all the moving parts. If your strikers are worn out, replace them.

The problem is that both the latch mechanisms and the striker plates on my doors are extremely worn out. A few years ago I welded in new material where the old metal on the striker plate was worn out, but that too has worn out. Yes, everything is adjusted as well as it can be, but the striker plate is so worn out that it won't hold the door very well. The mechanism also is so old that it doesn't spring back well and looses its holding ability over bumpy roads. The whole thing is just too darn old and needs a complete rebuild.

I'll check Jim Carter. Thanks.