Dock Lock Replacement
 

My good run of nothing actually breaking on my 300TD has come to an end. Now, the driver's door will not give that MB "chunk" when the door is closed. It doesn't completely close, I can try again or push on it if outside and it may close properly. It seems the cam in the door lock that flips back when the door is closed doesn't hold the door tightly closed anymore. I'm thinking it has a spring which may have broken. I have lubed everything. I didn't see any message threads on the door lock problem itself. Can someone confirm it is the door lock probably ? I don't think a malfunctioning door handle would do this would it ?

Most likely the rubber ridge on the striker plate is kaput.

that would definitely be easier to change than the lock ! so, if the rubber is worn would it sometimes ( like every 5 th door slam) let the lock engage ?

Door Lock Striker Plate
 

It might just be an adjustment to the striker plate that is needed to align it properly - just loosen the four Allen bolts, and adjust the plate, tighten the bolts evenly and slowly as you check the door for proper locking, then give them a final tightening.

Other than that, it could be a worn 'Cam' caused by incorrect alignment and slamming in the door lock, in which case, it might need a good dab of proper lubrication grease, or must be replaced.

Make sure you mark the position (at least 2 sides) of the striker plate before you move it. It can be a royal pita to get it back in position.

Another thought, check the screws that hold the latch mechanism to the door. Quite often these will be loose on old cars. Three large phillips screws if I remember correctly.

Edit: BTW, shims exist for moving the striker plate outward, if needed. They are about 0.5 mm each.

It's not looking good. The latch mechanism on the bad door seems weak compared to the other doors on the car and another MB. By weak I mean the cam that fits the striker flops easily back and forth, so it doesn't hold the door snug. If I need a door latch it apprears to be a dealer item, any ideas on who else might have one on line ?

I'd go to a pick $ save bone yard. If you lived near W. Wisconsin, I bet we could get one for $5-$10, but take a good look at the gizmo. You may just need a spring.

Several guys in the Parts section parting out 123's.

does any one have a detail picture or schematic of a w123 MB door latch ?

Daivd,

I know it's been several months but I am having the same problem as you were - can't get the door handle itself to snap back in postion when opening the door from the outside.

I came across this with very extensive pictures - just track down your model.

http://www.detali.ru/cat/oem_mb0.asp?TP=1

Did you get it fixed? What did you do?

Ryan