Sounds like you've already determined the lower latching pawl is no longer
connected to the door (handle) release? If parts are required I'd try a
wrecking yard or this list for used parts.

If the latching pawl is still connected to the handle release this behavior
can be caused by a lack of lubrication of the lower latching pawl. The pawl
remains down in the "release" position. Happens most often for me in cold
weather, when some moisture freezes in that lower section. Check to see if
the latching pawl is still connected to the door handle release, and if so
try some spray lube and exercise it until it's free. Sometimes I get
moisture freezing the outside handle release itself, which also needs some
lube.

Welcome to the list. Great name!

Angus Gordon
Bainbridge Island WA

On Sat, Nov 13, 2010 at 11:11 PM, Angus Johnston <angusjohnston@shaw.ca>wrote:

> 83 watercooled westy.  Driver's door lock mechanism is playing up.
> Door will not close - period.   Seems like the issue is the catch
> (latch?) mechanism (the bit that 'clicks' on to the door spindle and
> that is triggered by the outside handle finger latch) - it's not
> sticking up to latch the swivel mechanism in place when the door is
> shut.  Not sure if I'm describing this well or using non-standard
> terms, but can anyone offer some advice for fixing?  Can't see any
> new parts for this on Gwesty, Bus Depot, etc., so hoping this can be
> fixed.
>
> Thanks a lot guys,
>
> Angus
>