HELP..Rear side door 97 Explorer won't open. How to fix ??
Ned Phlegmkin
My 97 Explorer has decided I don't need to open or close the driver's
side rear door. It won't open from the outside handle or the inside one. I
struggled and was finally able to remove the inside plastic panel. I checked
all the linkages and they are all intact. Nothing is bent. I started to look
at the power door lock solenoid and found that the locking mechanism is only
moving partially. If I fiddle with the switch open close open close
eventually the lock plunger on the top of the door pops up fully and the
door will open. I assume that the solenoid from the power lock is sticking.
I was trying to figure out how to remove the solenoid when I noticed it
looks like it is RIVETED to the underside of the door. Is there anyway to
remove it without drilling out the rivet? There is a galvanised bracket that
straddles the solenoid can this be pried apart to slip the solenoid out? Or
am I way off base and there is something simple I am missing?
I did check the child safety switch and it doesn't matter which position
it is in the door still won't always open.
Stats....97 Explorer XLT
150 000 KMS
V-8 AWD
Power locks/keyless entry
Incidentally it picked the coldest day to start doing this as in -24C,
which makes me think it is the power lock solenoid. I froze my ass off
friggin around to figure out what was going on and taking it apart, was fine
when I was inside taking the panel off with the heat on but once I got it
open and was outside peering inside the door it was BRRRRRrrrrr.! Now I'm
cold and have it apart and need help..
Thanks for all past help and for any insight to my latest problem,
Ned
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A Good plan today is better than a Perfect plan next WEEK.