Sliding door won't shut

[mariner]

So my sliding door has suddenly decided to not shut after being fine. It now bounces back out rather than snecking in place. Have got lucky  couple of times only for it to then be a nightmare again so it is now staying shut!

I'm guessing that there is an issue with the locking mechanism at the back end of the door. Can anyone tell me, are these the same for all vans late and early? And anyone recommend any suppliers? They're available of Ebay but think i may go new if they're still manufactured. Thanks.

[AngeloEvs]

The latching mechanism must be free to move, also had this problem recently and had to spray with cleaning fluid and followed up with lubrication.

[mariner]

The latching mechanism must be free to move, also had this problem recently and had to spray with cleaning fluid and followed up with lubrication.

Cheers. Gave it a spray of WD40 yesterday. Maybe I'll take it out and then apart and give a proper look. That means opening the door though!
 

[TONYT25T25]

Had a similar problem with mine a few years ago. Found out one of the two bolts in the door that hold the slider in place had dropped out. Replacing it allowed the door to open and close again.

[mariner]

Thanks Tony. Think you might be on the right track here and that the door may have dropped for some reason - although I can’t see anything obvious. Pics below show the problem. Pretty sure there’s no issue with the striker plate and locking mechanism. It’s all moving freely, just not engaging fully when the door is shut. It was occasionally doing this, now not at all! Anymore ideas of what to look for would be great!

[SurfT25]

Looking at your 1st and 3rd pictures the pin and catch seem to be worn.

I,m thinking your door needs raising a touch.
Good luck

[mariner]

I tend to agree. Any idea how this is done and whether an incompetent van owner can take it on!

[SurfT25]

Without looking at my own and IIRC the attachments on the base of the door has 2 bolts for this adjustment.
So yes I believe you could DIY it.
Just remember to mark this plate before you adjust so that you know where it was if all goes wrong.

[mariner]

Cheers. Looking through the Haynes manual, might have a look at adjusting the pin on the striker plate too. If it gets to taking off door territory I’m out and the professionals are in!

[mioba]

That door plate had been butchered with not closing properly, you may get away with taking it off and filing it down, but needs a new one tbf.

The mechanisms dry out, clean and use wd40 to get it moving free then some drops of motor oil. wd40 is only good for getting things moving. plus gas all the way.

[Mjhayes]

I’m having a problem with mine it slides ok smoothly then stiffens up as it hits the bend unless I give it some welly it doesn’t house - I’m hoping sticking some grease in the runners will do the trick but if not I’ll be looking to adjust it so will be back looking at this thread

[mioba]

very good go westy vid for maintaining the runners

[SurfT25]

Lubrication is needed in the swing arm sounds like.
When door is open look at the box that houses the arm, there is a hole small beside it.
Few good squirts of lubrication in that hole should help you out.

[philmcC]

I had the same problem. Checked YouTube for explanatory videos. Several on their very helpful.
Having taken the door card off I have given the mechanism a good spray of WD-40 followed by lubrication with three in one oil, seems to have done the trick. I would have a go at disassembling if not successful.philmcC