I have a 97 Ram Van with electric door locks. The passenger door just stopped working and I can't figure out how to open the door to remove and inspect the latch. All the other doors work and the power windows work. I was able to pull the door panel away far enough to allow me to remove the plastic center piece and I can see the latch from inside. I could remove the seat but I am not sure what that will buy me. I keep fiddling with the latch as I can get one hand on it. It seems to have failed electronically. Not sure why. Is there a mechanical way for me to open the latch from inside? I pulled and tugged on everything but no cigar. I hope someone can help me. Thanks, Bill

 

Are you saying the electric lock stopped working or the mechanical latch stopped working?

The door latch is completely mechanical and does not rely on electricity to work.

 

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The latch seems stuck in the locked position. I removed the seat and pulled the panel. I disconnected all the rods on the latch but still no success. If I knew exactly how the latch works, I might be able to pry it open somehow.

 

Do not pry!!! You will end up getting a new/used door if you do.

Most all latches have a hole of a nubbie that you can move to manually open the latch. Please look for that. Take a screw driver and softly start investigating the latch with it. There is usually a way to open a stuck latch...

Also spray it PB Blaster and/or WD 40.

It will open eventually. It takes patience.

Good luck

 

My advice would be to remove the other door panel on the good door and using a flashlight and maybe a mirror see how that door latch unit operates. That will give you an idea of what to do to open the stuck door.