So im getting out and just like normal, i closed the door only for it to "spring" back out. I put that "C" shaped latch back in its open position, & then, same thing!!
It appears that this C shaped swiveling latch piece just wont "click", or "lock" shut when you TRY to close the door! Ive been searching for a solution but couldnt find mutch!!

So i pull off the interior door pannel, and i first check the rods, there connected and can be moved by hand. I was able to lock and unlock it by pulling on the rods but cannot figure out why the metal latch wont lock closed!!

I took a look at the passenger side to see how a working latch operates, and as soon as the door closes, it did its job! How it locks the door is a C shaped metal latch that rotates up ward and locks in place! SO whatever moves and locks that C shaped metal piece/latch in the closed position,, simply doesnt work!!!!!!!!

Almost forgot the stats,,,
Its a 1995 4 dr XJ 4.0L with power windows & locks which all work. The rear doors dont lock/unlock using the power button anymore which sucks as well!!

Anyone wanna chime in...........???

 

Well I know that the xj's have a big problem with driver door hinge weld coming apart from the body behind the LF quarter pannel!?!? But u would know that that is the problem cause ur door & QP would be bending the crap out of each other!

 

you went farther than i would have....I would replace the latch with a JY unit or a new one....Since the internals are fubar if for some reason you get it to "lock" what if it wont release the door??? Your screwed...just put on a new one..

Ps. i had a machine at work that had a door latch that wouldnt close and after messing with it and greasing it i got it to close....well long story short it wouldnt release and i had to break the latch to get the door open.....

 

The rusted out door hinges subject has been done a long time ago. New welded plates, etc,, so this is NOT a hinge thread,, its a DOOR LATCH thread,, as in where u put ur key into unlock the door and all of those parts.

 

with the door open try to close the latch with a screwdriver and see if it will click. should actually click 2x. it sounds like the striker on the pillar is not adjusted properly. does anything seem to be loose?

 

It moves freely with little effort. NO clicking sounds tho.

 

i would think that possibly a rod inside the door is bent and not allowing the lock mechanism to engage or the lock itself is busted. try disconnecting the lock rods from the lock and then trying again with the screwdriver to see if it locks then. then you should know exactly where ur problem lies