In a message dated 4/22/2006 1:41:33 PM Pacific Standard Time,
ahwahnee@CYBERTRAILS.COM writes:

>Any  advice on removing and opening up the latch mechanism?  Last time  I
>looked at it (been a few years) it resembled the workings of an  alarm>clock
with >levers & springs that seemed likely to  fly about.

The slider handle may be drooping because the handle is busted. It's pretty
common for them to wear out. It's easy to check the handle if you're taking
the  door panel off anyway. there is a phillips head screw accessable fromt he
inside  that is the only thing holdign the handle on. Loosen that screw and the
handle  will pull out from the outside.

My guess is you will find it cracked where it meets the square connecting
piece. New replacemtns are becoming scarce. Bus Depot and GoWesty had them last
time I checked. Cost is about $110.

No springs or clips should come out. There is only one washer to watch for
which is "special" because the hole in the center is square.

That's my 2 cents.

Best,
Jeff
83.5 Westy
LA,CA