I bought a 74 Lesabre as a parts car. A problem it has that is making my life difficult is that the drivers door won't open. From what I can tell looks like the lock mechanism is jammed in the lock position. No amount of pulling or prying on my part will get it to unlock. Before I use the nuclear option and pull out a sawsall, any one have any ideas how to get it open? I do have the top interior door panel off so I can access the internals.
If the window goes down you may be able to get some oil/WD 40 on the lock mechanism (might be rusted) and/or see if the hardware is moving.
pull off door panel spray the hell out of latch with carb cleaner then pb blaster. disconnect electric door lock if you cant get it to work
I had the same problem on a car I am parting out. I could reach the mechanism but it wouldn't budge. Soaking it in WD40 finally got it to break free.
there's a small spring on the latch mechanism that actuates the "unlock" movement of the lock rod. The spring rots and breaks, and you dont get the actuation you need to unlock the door. Gonna have to go in and more the latch yourself. Pretty common in 71-76 B and C bodies.
This also happens on the big cars. With the window down & a good flashlight look down inside the door. There will be a latch you can operate with a long medium size screwdriver. All you have to do is move the pivot. Unless rusted it will move very easily. Yes, it is the spring that breaks.
I did get it eventually. I believe it was the last problem described. I stuck my arm in and had to move something before it would unlock and the door would open. Thanks all!
