New door Handle lock problem

[paults1]

I am in the process of  installing new door handles with locks and keys. I have installed the right side so far. Problem is the new lock will not lock from the outside nor will it unlock when locked from the inside.  The new door handles were sold to work with my '63 230 sl. Is there some adjustment to make on the door handle lock or the inside door lock mechanism?  I have searched the forum to no avail. Help please!
Paul, '63 230SL

[ja17]

Hello Paul,

make sure that the little "paw" that extends into the door, is the same as the one that came off.  There are different varieties. This paw must be oriented the correct direction. After installation the paw should be adjusted so a small amount of play is noticeable when pushing the exterior door handle button (lock cylinder). Adjust the "paw" if you do not have enough play or too much play. Test the locking with the door closed.

[paults1]

Thanks Ja17,   There is a slot for a screw driver at the end of the paw, is this the way to do it? 

[w113dude]

yes, that flat sloted screw brings the paw back and forth for adjustment.

[paults1]

I need to know how to turn or orient the paw. The paw on the old set is pointed down, the new one is pointed to the side.

[w113dude]

look through your door lock hole, you'll see a tab that the paw pushes in to open door, If I remember correctly the bigger end of the paw is facing down, try it if not it should be the other way around, that paw rotates with your key as the door is locked it's pushing blank as it gets rotated 180 deg to unlock position it pushes the door lock tab.

[paults1]

Ok, is it possible to disassemble the paw so it will face up or down without changing the key insert position on the push button? In other words, can the paw shaft be removed & turned to a new position? 

[w113dude]

Yes, just unscrew it all the way, then change the direction. after it's in place you have to set the depth by adjusting that flat head screw. for this you have to place the handle in place.

[paults1]

All right!!!!  Right side done, everything works. The open part of the 'Y' of the paw is pointed in up position for this car, others may be different. Will attack the left, drivers side, later.
Thank you for the help. This would be a good addition to the tech. manual.
Regards,  Paul, '63 230 SL

[jpressick]

I have the same problem with my driver's door.  It will open normally but will not lock with the key.  The paw has been rotated 90 degrees but no luck.  The car is a 1967 250SL,of which I am the original owner and to my memory the door handle has not been changed.  It does appear as if the door handle and the door mechanism are not compatible or there is a piece missing.  Any help/suggestions would be greatly appreciated.  Cheers  Jim

[w113dude]

  The paw has been rotated 90 degrees but no luck. 

Hi Jim,

The paw has to rotate 180 degrees for the locking and unlocking action to take place. with the paw either facing up or down not side to side.

[jpressick]

Thanks for the info.  The key I was using allowed only 90 degrees turn.  I have other keys that will allow a 90 degree turn to the left and 90 degree turn to the right.  Haven't had a chance to try it but is this what you meant by 180 degrees?  Cheers  Jim  Thank you thank you it works!  All it took was the right key and some adjustment on the paw.  Have a Happy New Year  Cheers  Jim