my thoughts ...
It's not a hard fix usually.

I'm guessing we're talking about a front passenger's door with manual locks.

I have never seen one of those latches mess up. They're real well made in my
experience.

if the actual latch itself is worn to where it can't work ..
it's not a hard part to change especially.
I think all years are the same ..in manual locking latches .
If that's what you need I could supply a good one for sure.

you might try lubing and adjusting too, first.

Scott
www.turbovans.com
----- Original Message -----
From: "Arlene K Sondergaard" <asonder@USGS.GOV>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Friday, October 29, 2010 10:32 AM
Subject: door latch problem

> Hi
>
> My 87 vanagon has a problem door latch on the passenger side.
> The door will open but not close.
> The door latch will not return to its original setting so it will not go
> around the striker.
> Using a couple screwdrivers to manipulate it is all I can do.
>
> Is this an easy fix?
>
> Thanks,
> Arlene