1931 Model A Ford Roadster Door Latch Mechanisms

[Robert Todd]

Two Questions:

1. It appears that the internal spring in the door latch mechanism is quite strong and that it will be necessary to "turn the door handle" when closing the door. Was this the original intent or was the original intent that the door could be "slammed" shut without turning the door handle?

2. From what I have read, the door latch mechanisms on this body style may have been installed before the body was painted, thereby being painted the body color. Was this really the case or were the door latches painted black before installation and installed after the body was painted?

I would appreciate a response from anyone knowledgable and if you have a reference, that would be icing on the cake!

Thank you!

Robert Todd
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