drivers side door wont open

[maxwedge5281]

I have a new to me 71 bronco headed to me and to be delivered this morning. according to the seller the carrier driver slammed the door so hard that it will not open....have to enter and exit from the passenger side. I did a search but did not see this subject mentioned....first thing to do when it is delivered is t fix the door! any pics of the mechanism or thoughts on what might have happened to the door unlatch mechanism is appreciated. thanks in advance...

 

[Master Chief]

That's a sweet looking rig Max.

As for the door not opening, unless the door is locked, I bet that a rod is no longer connected. Try opening it from the inside. If that works it should tell you that the outside door handle is not connected, if not it is most likely at the door latch. If neither handle works, you'll have to remove the door panel, reach in and actuate the latch, then open the door to give you room to work on it.

https://www.wildhorses4x4.com/product/Door_Latch_6877yr/Bronco_Door_Parts_68-77

 

[Steve83]

That's a common symptom of the operating rod for the outside pushbutton being adjusted too long, or sticking down. That part of the mechanism must return fully up before the latch can work again, from either release.

 

[blubuckaroo]

I've had these link bushings fail so many times that I carry spares in the glove box.
https://www.tomsbroncoparts.com/pro...ip-oe-metal-style-68-77-early-ford-bronco-new

Here's a diagram from Toms.
https://www.tomsbroncoparts.com/product/door-latch-passenger-68-77-ford-bronco-new

 

[WILDHORSES]

Once you have it off the carrier remove
1. Arm rest
2. inner door lever
3. window crank
4. door panel

Now you can look inside and determine what the issue is. It's all pretty simple mechanical linkage. The door latch itself will often be the problem. Here's a video having to do with the issue. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rj1DGw3_iZc

Jim

 

[maxwedge5281]

thanks guys for the info. it was delivered early this morning and I went to work on the door. with your help I was able to unlatch the door....but im not sure exactly what I fixed when I put it all back together. I did not check the door lock button until I had removed the door panel.it was down...so maybe the driver not being familiar with the bronco pushed the lock button down....thanks again for the help!

 

[56f100bbw]

Very nice looking half cab