Front Door Inner Mechanical Components - Repairing or Restoring?

[undermind]

I just picked up the doors for my recently purchased 1977 FJ40. They are basically useless because the outside door handles are broken off. I don't know if the inside handles work, there is not movement at the clasp when I pull the inner handle - I don't know if there's supposed to be.. I've installed the first outer door handle and the mechanical process doesn't seem to be working. It's just been very frustrating to work on because of the limited access through the holes on the door panels.

Long story short, I'd like to fix the inner components in the doors, but I have no idea who I would take it to. I'm assuming the function of these doors can be repaired or restored, I just don't know how to approach it.

Thanks for the help!

 

[FJsnoozer]

It is rather easy to fix. I bought new handles from CCOT for pretty cheap as one of my first purchases. You will need basic tools and will have to remove the vinyl door cover

 

[NE78FJ40]

Do it yourself. Very easy. Just pay attention where the parts go and how.

 

[kurtnkegger]

unless you're talking about tearing in to the latch box...that's tack welded shut. I had broken components inside mine, and couldn't repair, even after I worked my way in to the inside. I had to replace. Where the handle linkages hook-up is pretty straight forward.

 

[FJsnoozer]

New patch boxes are available at CCOT also

 

[bj40green]

The whole lock system is a pretty simple system of push / pull rods. Most common problems are in alignment or the latch box.
Assuming that the PO didn't destroy the system, take out the latch box, clean it and grease it. If that does'n't work, replace it and adjust the rods. It takes some bending to get it right.
Oh, and small Japanese hands will help.

Rudi

 

[undermind]

Thanks for the replies, it gives me hope that it CAN be done. I will put some time into this today.

One question.. When you say "latch box" are you referring to what CCOT calls "Door latch regulator"?

 

[bj40green]

Thanks for the replies, it gives me hope that it CAN be done. I will put some time into this today.

One question.. When you say "latch box" are you referring to what CCOT calls "Door latch regulator"?

YES,

rudi

 

[undermind]

I've got the latch box out.
What is the best thing for cleaning the years of dirt and grime off of it?
And what do I use to grease it (lube it up)?

Lastly, how do you get the window crank handle off so that I can get that inner vinyl panel off all the way?

Thanks

 

[NE78FJ40]

There is a snap ring holding the handle on. Push the vinyl in slightly and pull out on the handle lightly. You will see the ring. I got mine off with a screwdriver or you could use pliers.

 

[kurtnkegger]

Better...take a rag, and get it between the crank, and panel...pull back ant forth as you move it around the crank...the rag catches the clip, and it comes right off. Piece of cake.

 

[undermind]

Still hoping someone can suggest a product to clean and lube the latch box..

Might be good to soak in something, then a spray on lube?

I'm new to retsoring parts like this..

 

[kurtnkegger]

I just sprayed some WD40 in mine and flushed the grime out with that. Everything was oiled then. Perhaps spraying a white lithium grease in there...that's great for metal lube and easily applied.

 

[edwjmcgrath]

I use spray brake cleaner for general cleaning stuff like that. Comes with a nozzle for getting in small spaces and dries quickly with no residue. Then use wd40-or my favorite T-9 by Boeshield.

 

[crumbo]

soak it in diesel