Packard Forum Index » Post-War (1946-54)

BigKev Quote:

Gen-2 Firebirds have the same problem with the front door (being a 2dr HT) here in Pahrump because of the fine dirt. Sometimes even a serious kick from the inside doesn't break it loose. I've had to cut through from the inside to get a long screwdriver into a position to flip the door latch on the striker.

I think this is a generic problem with old cars.

Craig

The latch gear deteriorated due to the door gap allowing water to drip down. Over the years that it was sitting in the salvage yard, it rusted itself shut. Now, it is on to the next door, but that one is SOLID. I see it requiring a lot of force to get open. For now, it is a 1952 200 deluxe 3 door sedan.

Perhaps that is "mother nature's" child proof lock.

My rear passsenger door was that same way and after kicking the inside, oiling the mechanisms (that I could reach), etc., it just finally popped open one day as if nothing was wrong.

Hey GearRat.....Your welcome. Glad I could help. You could have just welded the back doors shut so you could have a 2 door ! LOL Glad you got it open.......

HotRod

LOL, that had crossed my mind. I thought the person who owned it before me had that idea, and instead of welding, used sheet metal screws or something. haha

Didn't want to open a new topic, but here is a slideshow I found that has the other Packard at the Lonestar Roundup. The '53 appears at 3:47.

youtube.com/watch?v=l2ttV09OlFY

Yesterday I was able to get some help from my brother. We were bound and determined to get the driver's side rear door open. First order of business was to unbolt the door hinges. From there I got in the back and started kicking the door, which really takes a lot out on your legs. When I got tired my brother would take over the kicking duties. After almost 2 hours of kicking, the door had only moved out maybe a 1/2". At that point I was able to see the latch, so a screw driver thin enough to fit between the door and the body would allow me to strike the latch downwards. FINALLY, the door was at a point where a good hard kick would knock her out, sure enough, that was all it took. YES, I have a four door!

Now that door works better than all the others. I will try to post some pictures later. There is some pretty bad body damage to the kicker panel. This will give me a chance to do some sheet metal work!

-GearRat

For Sale: NOS Door Latches.
No, I'm not kidding...

Here they are...

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