Numerous Door Lock Issues

[Hugh]

I've got numerous problems to figure out here. My door locks have been weird ever since someone broke into my car, damaged every single lock cylinder... tried to steal it, but the new ignition switch wasn't giving up.

 

I was left with 2 broken door locks, a broken trunk lock, and a destroyed brand new ignition switch.

 

So I had someone local replace everything with junkyard parts. I bought another brand new ignition because that was the biggest theft deterrent before.

 

 

So here's my issues as they stand:

 

Passenger Door: Locks and unlocks with a key or from the knob on the inside, but only if the door is shut. Once its open, its impossible to lock. This is annoying because you can't just push down the lock and shut the door. You must either use the key or go around to the driver side and reach over to lock it. Is this a factory design for some reason? This is the only Z I've owned, and its always been like this. Would be funny if thats just how it is.

 

This is a minor annoyance, but not a security issue. Any advice appreciated.

 

 

Driver door: This one has bigger problems. The shaft that the inner lock knob sits on is broken off at the end of the threads. It's not long enough to stick out of the hole, and therefore it flops around inside the door. With it leaning backward, the lock works from the outside if you turn the key while pulling the handle. The mechanism naturally rests back into the locking position as soon as you remove the key. Sort of an auto-locking door.

 

The only way to unlock it from the inside is to have the door panel off the door, and I reach in and pull up on the lever. PITA.

 

I need to replace the rod that the lock knob sits on. I was told by the guy who replaced the locks that the entire roller assembly that latches the doors is just worn out and needs replacing. Looking at it, I agree.

 

Is there any source for new parts for any of this? I don't need the lock cylinders or door handles. I need everything else if I can get it.

 

I'm afraid junkyard parts are going to lead to the same failures or possibly some new, more interesting failures in the future.

 

So any new parts preferred. Any type of rebuilding is welcome. If I'm stuck reusing old parts... so be it.

[DavyZ]

Hugh,

 

I'm sort of in the same situation myself, so I empathize with you (minus the theft damage). I am going to order some Ford locks to replace the key locks (should be the same size as the Datsun) if i cannot find any others for a reasonable price on ebay. I would rather have new ONLY if I cannot get very decent used OEM equipment.

 

As far as your rod(s) and roller assy are concerned, you might want to try Z Barn to get good used stuff. I would trust they would not sell you junk to replace your junk with. If I cannot refinish or easily fab the door mechanicals, I plan to just order something from them. Around here, Z's are very scarce at the junkyards.

 

This info may not help much, but it is how I am planning to replace my own junk!!

 

Davy

[Hugh]

No, anything helps. Thanks for the tips.