Thread: Drivers door lock pops open to first catch

Is it the old style latch or a newer, burst proof type?

If it is the old style like the (possibly not original) one I had on my Series III, it may be something as simple as the fact that the plate on the door pillar has moved too far in to allow engagement on the second step on the catch.

Regardless of the type of door lock (later burstproof or early bolt type) the most likely issue is that the striker plate has moved in slightly so that the door is not closing quite far enough for the lock to latch securely.

If it is the early type, it could also be due to a lack of lubrication or due to wear, or even a broken spring.

If it is the later type, it could be wear or lack of lubrication (in the internals of the lock - I know you are not supposed to lubricate them, but the bloke who wrote that did not live in a dusty climate and was not looking at the locks functioning after 33-45years in service!).

The first suggestion is by far most likely - try moving the striker plate out a couple of mm and see how it goes.

My old 110 used to close beautifully in the summer and only go to the first catch in winter, took me two seasons to realise it was the old door rubbers going hard in the cold and softening up in spring...

but the receiver taking a slide is probably a more likely scenario I admit