1940 Ford Coupe Door Handle Problems
 

The driver door latch plunger will not return to normal (out) position after opening. It stays inside the door. To open you have to reach inside then push handle down. To latch the door you have to lift up on the inside handle. What is wrong and how do I fix it?
Thank you guys!!

Re: 1940 Ford Coupe Door Handle Problems
 

If it is anything like my 1937 latch, it may be the spring that pushes the plunger out has failed. My door latch handle was droopy and I ended up finding a new latch and replacing rather than attempting a repair of the old latch. As I understand, you need to use heat when attempting to bend the tabs on a latch assembly.

Re: 1940 Ford Coupe Door Handle Problems
 

Here is my reply to another post on this same topic:

The best way to fix the problem is remove the latch assembly and thoroughly clean it to remove all the grease and grime. Once clean, you can locate the offending broken spring. Mount the latch in a vise where you can have good access to make the repair. You will see that the spring is held in place by 2 short tabs that are bent at a 90 degree angle to the latch and pinched together to hold the spring. Use a propane torch with a narrow pinpoint flame and heat the 2 tabs until they are almost red. While still hot, you can then bend them SLIGHTLY; just enough to remove the spring without damaging the tabs. (Be careful with the tabs - you'll need to use them again). Install the new spring in the latch mechanism making sure it's nestled in the right spot and heat the 2 tabs again then take a pair of pliers and pinch them back together to firmly hold the spring in place. After things cool down, use your favorite spray lubricant on all the moving parts and you should be ready to reinstall. I would test it by inserting the handle and make sure it returns to suit you. You can do it!

Re: 1940 Ford Coupe Door Handle Problems
 

Two springs on a '40 latch.

The one out in the open holds the outside handle level.

The one hidden inside returns the plunger.

Looks like project to change that one.

Re: 1940 Ford Coupe Door Handle Problems
 

Is this on a 1940 OR a 1950??

The 40 doesn't have a push button.


Paul in CT

Re: 1940 Ford Coupe Door Handle Problems
 

Re: 1940 Ford Coupe Door Handle Problems
 

Re: 1940 Ford Coupe Door Handle Problems
 

This is the driver side on a 40 coupe.

Re: 1940 Ford Coupe Door Handle Problems
 

Picture I posted was passenger side. It was just as a reference for the springs.

Drivers side is a mirror image less the key lock portion.

Here is a picture of a dirty driver side latch; same spring arrangement.

Re: 1940 Ford Coupe Door Handle Problems
 

Sorry didn't mean to confuse the issue.

While I was aware you were having a problem with the the driver's side latch; I used the passenger side picture because it was clearer and the spring arrangement is the same.

I posted a (not as good) picture of a driver's side latch just now.

Re: 1940 Ford Coupe Door Handle Problems
 

Oh thats ok, I was just answering a question above if this issue is in my 50 or 40. I really appreciate all the help and photos. Door latch is new to me as I have never repaired or replaced one before. Just lucky I guess.

Re: 1940 Ford Coupe Door Handle Problems
 

I may have a NOS Ford latch, I will look today and PM you. Can bring to Portland Swap Meet.

Re: 1940 Ford Coupe Door Handle Problems
 

Thank you Mr. Deuce but I already have one! Appreciate your willingness to help!!

Re: 1940 Ford Coupe Door Handle Problems
 

Follow up with Mike (deuce roadster). If he has NOS it's worth buying.

Re: 1940 Ford Coupe Door Handle Problems
 

X-E-LENT advice. Buy it now.

Re: 1940 Ford Coupe Door Handle Problems
 

Mike, (deuce roaster) would you still have door latch and if so would it fit 1938 2dr sedan drivers side? Thanks