<VV> Door locking problem - EM conv

[Robert Hawley]

Howdy All, I am reassembling my 1963 conv doors after having the car repainted and have a problem that is not addressed in the shop manual or other resources  (and I have searched the archives with no applicable results). The problem is only concerning the passenger door which worked and closed well before, but after installing the door handle and lock assembly - the door has two problems

 

First: The door won't close unless slammed hard; otherwise the door latch will catch but "bounces" open to the first stop.

 

Second: The door will not lock with the inside handle or the key (the key is hard to turn, but will turn with some effort and it is engaging the latch assembly - easy to see since the glass is not in the door)  

 

Both door latches worked prior to reassembly and the driver's door operates fine from the key or handle. Looking at the driver's door everything looks the same as the passenger door that won't work.  Prior to reassembly the internal latch mechanisms, handles and locks were removed (from both doors), cleaned and re-lubed and seemed to operate without binding. The door, itself, is aligned properly on its hinges and swings freely. The key lock pawl IS engaged in the latching mechanism and the locks only fit in the door one way.  The problem seems to be that the sliding tab that blocks the door button from operating when the door is locked won't fully engage with the key or inside handle, but it can be nudged over with a finger through the door access opening.  I have looked in the manual for an adjustment to move the locking tab mechanism over the needed ½ inch to engage the lock, but cannot find an answer.  Any suggestions are most appreciated including how to disengage the small clip that holds the remote rod (from the inside door handle) to the latch mechanism.  Bob Hawley (1963 Spyder conv.)