slammin the Caddy doors [Archive] - Autobodystore Forums

deadsled

01-06-2006, 05:19 PM

I know my car is 30 yrs old - but isn't there a way to get the doors to close without having to take a running start first? I had a guy rebuild the hinges a few yrs ago- but even then it took a good shove to close them. Is there a way to ddjust the strikers? if so what's the procedure?? Also the latch in the door itself has to be manually put into position before closing the door.
T.

MARTINSR

01-07-2006, 12:29 PM

The latch has a problem, start there, replace it or at least try some penetrating oil.

On the alignment, the door should close on the striker without it going up or down as it hits. In other words, if the striker were removed the door should swing closed perfectly in alignment (or as perfect as you want it). And it should not be getting "pulled" up or down as it is latched.

The striker should go right into the center of the latch. It can be a little high or low (depending on the latch design) so that it hits the thing that grabs the striker sooner to "help" it in it's motion to latch. But it should NEVER hit the body of the latch or door as the door is shut.

Also, be sure that the latch gets to the "second latch". Leave the striker out a little so when you close the door you can slowly latch it and see the two distinctive "latches" or positions of the latch, "latched".

Once you know that it is indeed latching on both, move the striker in until the door is flush with the quarter.

Brian

Brian_B

01-07-2006, 08:06 PM

Could the hinges be worn out also? For some cars the hinge pin is replaceable. I don't know if yours are available or not.

Len

01-07-2006, 09:31 PM

I know my car is 30 yrs old - but isn't there a way to get the doors to close without having to take a running start first? I had a guy rebuild the hinges a few yrs ago- but even then it took a good shove to close them. Is there a way to ddjust the strikers? if so what's the procedure?? Also the latch in the door itself has to be manually put into position before closing the door.
T.
When you open the door slowly does it drop down as the latch and the striker separate?