Malcolm Stebbins wrote:

>  I
>will be searching the archives to find why the sliding door seems to prefer the open position to
>the closed position, as the door latch lets go at random.
>
Malcolm, the rear part of the sliding door lock - that part at the rear
of the door - becomes problematic with age. The lock has issues and VW
recognized and addressed those issues with the manufacture of a modified
replacement lock assembly. The original part is essentially
non-repairable and you simply replace the lock with the new one. Cost is
$35 from Camelback VW. I just went through all this with my vanagon. It
is an easy fix.

Also, the part of the locking mechanisism at the front of the door by
the handle also becomes problematic with age and doesn't catch properly
and consequently the door will not stay latched, resulting in sudden and
unexpected release and sliding opening. It often happens when
accelerating or going around a tight curve. This event can be and is
extremely disconcerting to say the least.

The front part of the latching system/mechanism is essencitally
repairable. I just went through this with my van, as well, and repaired
it by doing a bit of filing and grinding to the moving parts had a bit
more clearance to operate properly.

I urge you to replace that rear locking part, as that contains the
double locking parts that prevent the door from coming completely open
if the lock pops loose from the locking pin in the door. It is a safety
item.

Regards,

John Rodgers
88 GL Driver