Tim,

could be that the retaining screw (inside door, on handle latch
mechanism) is loose. Drop of loctite helps keep it in it place. It
also could be that you are missing of have a worn out escutcheon.

I think Van Cafe sells replacements.

My attempt at making a pre-86 version:
http://shufti.wordpress.com/2010/03/08/return-of-the-escutcheon/

And a post '86 version:
http://shufti.wordpress.com/2010/02/14/sliding-door-escutcheon/

Gives you an idea of what the escutcheon is. I'm going to go out on a
limb and say that, when in good condition, the escutcheon supports the
door handle shaft in a way that might reduce the chance of breakage.

alistair

On 23-Jan-11, at 9:27 AM, Timmy Evens wrote:

> so i've got an 84 westy and lately my self respect has forced me to
> look for a functional sliding door handle. the one i currently use
> is flopping all over the place. is there a bushing kit out there or
> a specific part i can order that would take care of this? the thing
> works but flops around in a way no self respecting vanite would allow.
>
>
> thanks,
> tim