Sliding door won't close properly!

[Johanna]

Hi, went to get something out of the van yesterday, and when we tried to close the door, the catch wouldn't work - I.e. the door closed, but didn't stay closed. We eventually managed to get it shut, but only just (i.e. there's a bit of a gap at the back).

It's probably got something to do with the cold, I'm sure it must have been below zero, but which part is the actual catch that keeps the door closed? Is it the little hook in the door post at the front, or is it hidden in the mechanism at the back of the sliding door?

Would really apprechiate a clue, it doesn't look very safe like this

[Fritz]

Johana,,,,,,,you will have to decide if the catch mechanism is at fault (the bit secured to the door),,,,,,,,,,,,, or if the striker is the problem (the post fitted to the van), which then won't allow the catch to close fully.

If it is the striker which has moved a simple adjustment may be all that is need to sort your problem.
BUT if it is the catch mechanism which is at fault you may be able to tell by looking closely at the lever and pawl for signs of wear. Loose levers and worn pawls are common, they can be repaired or replaced the choice is yours.

Regards

Fritz,,,,,,,,,,

[Johanna]

Well, it closed fine the next day when it was a bit warmer, so I think it's the catch (which is at the back, yeah?), and the oil in it just got cold and a bit sticky. Will check next time it happens (hope it won't obviously...)

[Westy.Club.Joker]

Clean all the gunk off the lock and catch with brake cleaner or similar, then oil it with light oil.

[Dubstar]

Also check that is wasn't something stuck in the runner stopping the door shutting-ie,pen lid, kids toy,stones etc. It may have fallen out, hence it'll now shut all the way.