I went through this sliding door problem.

Problem: sliding door unlocks when a bump is hit.

Fix: Replace the lock at the rear of the door. VW has redesigned the
locking mechanism and a simple replacement of the lock will cost you $35
for the lock itself. This is an easy owner repair. IF, and I mean IF, in
your efforts to fix the door in any other way, you have not disturbed
the alignment of the door latch post or did any grinding on anything
then the new lock should fit right the first shot without any messing
around. This is one of those things where it is easier, more proper, and
safer to put in the improved part. Simply buy and install the upgraded
part and no more sudden door opening problems.

I bought my lock from Camelback VW in Phoenix. Good price, prompt
delivery. Just be sure you let them know you are from out of state and
you are a subscriber to the Vanagon newsgroup, and that is where you
learned aobut them. Sometimes you get a price break on that basis.

Regards,

John Rodgers
88 GL Driver

Jonathan Poole wrote:

>I can't help with a few of your problems, and recently someone posted a
>great link to a how-to for the typical arm rest problems:
>http://www.weidefamily.net/vanagon/
>in the "interior bits" section you can click next until you see the arm rest
>info..
> Regarding the sliding door, I might just have an easy fix for you.
> My buddies '85 sliding door would close and then first bump you hit become
>ajar. It would never completely open, and never stay completely shut. I
>fiddled around with the door,, lubing all of the linkages and latches etc.
>and while it became even more smooth it still popped open. The solution that
>I applied, that has worked for over a year now was to take a dremel tool and
>reshape the moving part of the rear latch. It had become too rounded if I
>recall correctly and the stationary pole that the latch hooks onto wouldn't
>sit all the way down into the catch. hmm,, well this isn't really easy to
>explain, but if you can't seem to figure anything else out,, go back their
>and with the door slightly open look at the crab claw looking piece (that
>turns and grabs the rear pole when you close the door) and if it looks worn
>then instead of replacing it you can try to grind it out a bit so that it
>holds better..
> whew,, what a poor description,, I don't feel like taking a picture,,
>sorry..
> Later,
>Jonathan Poole
>
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