True Connections

Continuing on our door theme from last month, this month we will discuss the intricacies of door latches. All 1964-1972 Chevelle and El Camino door latches used three Phillips head screws to secure it to the inside rear of the door. There isn’t any gasket or sealer that is used, it is just metal to metal, but it is a good idea to use a small amount of medium strength thread locker on the screws like factory did so the latches don’t loosen up. All door latches have a rod going up to the top of the door for the lock knob, and a rod going forward to the inside door handle. There is also a post coming off the latch that slides into the pawl on the door lock cylinder. The Chevelle and El Camino door latches interchanged for 1964-1965. The 1966-1967 door latch design was changed slightly where the outside door handle button strikes the latch but then it was changed back to the earlier style in 1968. Although 1968 door latches have a different lever for the lock knob and don’t interchange with any other year. The 69-72 Chevelle and El Camino door latches all interchange between the years. The door latches for 1966 through 1972 have been in reproduction now for the passed year or so and it doesn’t look like anyone will be reproducing the 1964-1965 latches any time soon. Fortunately we’ve found that the 69-72 door latch works perfect for the 1964-1965. The only difference we have found is that the lock rod lever is slightly longer but it isn’t anything that gets in the way. The biggest problem with door latches is that they get neglected over the years, the springs inside start to corrode, and eventually break. You’ll definitely know when this occurs since it usually prevents your door from being opened. The only way to get your door back open is to jimmy the latch from the inside which is not an easy prospect so it’s a good idea to keep those door latches well lubed. To replace your door latch you will need to remove your armrests, inside handles and the door panel. Next, unscrew the three attaching screws that mount the latch to the door. From there you’ll have to move your window up or down so you can reach inside the door and play with guiding the latch out. In 1969 GM began to offer electric door locks on the Chevelles and El Caminos, which used a solenoid mounted inside the door connected to an arm on the latch. The latch itself however, is all the same. Next month we’ll go back to the interior and in the coming months stay tuned for a series of articles on the fact and fiction of the 1965 Z-16.