Early Vanagon front slider latch fix?

[bigashlow]

OK I did a quick look & did not find anything...So he we go front slider latch on vanagons early IE: 1980 to I think 1983-4?
Problem the Cargo/Slider door stays lock because of failed spring in latch it self (FRONT) the one inside the door that handel & key go to.
Question has anybody found a fix?

Question can a late latch be installed? if so what has to be done?

I have been getting sick & tired of putting key in lock & unlock everytime
& I also have experimented with a rubber band in lieu of spring but only work for short time a week or two I'm ready for a real save or a new latch for $100? So ...OK if you have a NOS latch I have cash or call me @ 360 683 6924 if you have a fix!

[ragnarhairybreeks]

I hope I understand your problem, the little locking knob wont stay up in the unlocked position?

what I did in my '82 with same problem is unscrew the knob and slip a small section of rubber hose over the threaded boss on knob. when knob screwed back in the hose provides enough friction to keep it in the unlocked position.

Its about the only thing you can do barring replacement of entire latch assembly. The spring that breaks is impossible to repair.

alistair
_________________
'86 7 passenger syncro, converted to westy pop top, project still in progress
'82 westy, diesel converted to gas in '94, now gone...
https://shufti.blog/
Old address still works...
http://shufti.wordpress.com

[bigashlow]

This Canadian is ON THE BALL...I did what he said...I tried a couple different hose types & ended up with the BMW 8mm fuel injection hose very much like the old type 3 injection hose, (SAME STUFF) & cut a piece about 8mm long & my it slip by adding silicone spray & work like a champ!

So I say OK to our friends in Canada! If he were a bit closer I could look north & see him across the straight of Juan De Fuca