Hi, just put a new belt weatherstrip around the passenger's side door of my 73 coupe. Got a problem though, closing the door is a bit tight now. That's not the proplem though.

The outside door handle got really hard to work and eventually got to the point where it just does not work at all. I bought a new door handle, but looking at the new and old handles, I don't see much difference.

The old one doesn't look broken, and the angle of the actuator lever seems ok. It is just slightly bent, which might account for 1/8 inch less travel. But looks good otherwise.

I'm concerned that the new handle won't actually help anything. I haven't put in the new one since I have to get a replacement seal now (broke the old one).

Could it be the latch mechanism? Or, are things really so close that 1/8 inch can mean not working?

With the handle out I can reach into the door and easily open it by pushing the rod down.

I'm confused here.

John

 

Need some advice here. Could it be the latch, even though it seems to work by pushing down the rod?

 

How long has it been since you put the new door weather seal on?

New ones are usually very firm and new a little while (few weeks) to settle and better conform to your car. That should then help your handle.

 

It's been 4 weeks. I think it's ok now. Not as tight as it was.

But, the door handle stopped working when the strips were first put in, so the handle didn't get any better.

When I use the rod internal to the door, it doesn't take much effort to open the door. I think that there's either an issue with the handle, the latch, or the rod isn't long enough for some reason.

 

Have you tried putting the new handle on to see if it works?

 

I was about to, but I broke the gasket. On order from Mustangs unlimited. When it comes it I will try it.

Thought I'd ask about the latch while I was waiting.

Thanks,

 

those old 71-73 handles are made from pot metal and suck if its bent a little it will cause problems want to know a little secret? you can buy cheap and plenty replacement handles for about 5$ from the front doors of these exactly the same. ive had about 10 71-73 cars the door handles were a common problem for me from previous abuse. as for the door being to tight you need to adjust the striker its bolted to the door jamb. also if you havent done so go ahead and check your door pins the 71-73 doors are super heavy and pin wear is normally very bad. plus its a cheap and
easy repair