Driver Side Door Handle Inop

[sevenmarythree]

Tried searching, no joy...so now I'll ask the masses.

I have an '78 FJ40 and was driving it home on about 8 miles of gravel roads after one of the kids' volleyball games. The door handle worked fine at the school; when I got home, neither the inside nor the outside door handle would release the door latch. I assume something in the handle/latch system rattled itself loose inside the door on the gravel road ride home.

I'm sure the best way to handle this is to pop the door card/interior cover off and see what came loose, but trying to wedge my 6'2" 220 lb self between the steering wheel, seat, and driver door doesn't sound all that appealing. Is there a way to release the door latch so I can more easily access the door card? Any suggestions or ideas would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

 

[samatulich]

Is it closed all the way? Maybe try pushing from the outside to see if you can get the latch mechanism to engage. I feel like I've had similar issues on my '76.
I recently replaced both exterior handles and spent some time getting the doors hung so everything opens and closes better.

 

[charliemeyer007]

FJ40, FJ45 and FJ47 Front Doors, regulators, weatherstrip, glass, handles and hardware - USA and Non-USA spec - 1975-1984 Land Cruiser - Specter Off-Road

Toyota Land Cruiser parts since 1983. From the oldest FJ25 and to the newest Land Cruiser, Non USA or domestic 40 Series, 60 Series 80 Series or 100 Series, SOR has the largest selection of top quality new and used OEM and aftermarket Land Cruiser parts in stock in the world. Specializing in...

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Hire a skinny teenager. I'm your size and I fit. With the door open, you will most likely be kneeling on the ground or sitting on a crate.

 

[pb4ugo]

As @samatulich said, make sure the door is completely latched. A lot a times the door handles won't operate if the door is partially latched. Are you sure the door is unlocked. Maybe try the key on the outside door lock. The interior rod may have disconnected from the lock mechanism. In the end you may have to take the door card off. The door might be easier to work on with the seat removed.