Its pretty well impractical to fix the internal spring that keep the locking
knob in position. A  easy fix however, is to unscrew the knob and slip a
small length of rubber tubing over the knob's shaft (oh, about 3/8" long and
maybe 1/4" ID).
Then screw the knob back in. The tubing will create enough friction to keep
the knob in position, up or down.

Has worked for me for years.

Jeez, that description sounds, err, awkward.

Alistair

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From: Ken Hunter <EVEHART33@AOL.COM>
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Sliding door lock
Date: Sun, Feb 13, 2000, 4:26 AM

I have had a problem with the inside door lock lever on my 82 since I bought
it. The door remains locked from the outside  unless I wedge something under
the inside lock lever then it opens fine. I am presently waiting for
penetrant to loosen the mounting screws for the latch assembly so I can
remove it for a better look inside. Bentley doesn't show anything about the
lock. Has anyone" been there done that" with this problem?