My friend's Montero rear cargo door handle mechanism went belly up yesterday. Do you know if the mechanism is a piece of pot metal which may have broken or an actuator arm which might have only lost something like a press on type keeper or what? Just trying to figure out what may need replacing. Rode it it the other day. That's one sweet ride. I saw that it had "locker" for high and low. He wasn't even aware of it. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" /> Is that just rear or both? That thing rides like a Cadillac compared to my 89 Trooper.

thanks guys,
shooter

Not sure about the door latch mechanism but you can download the factory manuals from mitsubishilinks.com for the 92 or 96 which have the same mechanism so you can get an idea what you'll be dealing with. Is it to where he can't open it at all or can he open it from either the inside or outside latches?

As for the locker, there is a transfer case locker (mechanically actuated?) and a rear differential air actuated locker. A front air locker is available from ARB.

In many cases, a stock mitsu will outperform other stock/near stock rigs on the trail and in almost every case it will surprise those not familiar with it the first time they see what it's capable of off road. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />

Are you sure its broken? The mechanism is notorious for seizing up....spray some WD-40 or Tri-flow into the door latch and mechanism and see if it frees it up.

That was the problem with both of my Gen 2s. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />

Thanks guys. I'll ask him again in the morning. From what he was telling me, I know he didn't try it from the interior and I was under the impression the handle was flopping in a way consistent with it having lost its functionality. Thanks for the link also. I'll check it out. As I stated months ago, this is a very nice Montero. Wagon needs a ring job (smokes a little and burns oil) though it's like pulling teeth to try to get him to do it. He has both the skills and the shop to work on it. He worked on school buses for most of his adult life so I understand his lack of enthusiasm. I'll keep you posted.

thanks as always,
shooter

I have replaced 2 rear door handles. They are made of plastic. Both were broke in the same place, the part that you place your fingers on to release broke free. I don't think there would be any way to repair. The last one I bought from a Pick N Pull yard cost me $14. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> It did take several yard searches to find a good one. If anyone does find one, grab it.

Was easy to replace. Remove the tool kit, the plastic around the inside latch, then the rear door panel. Pull back the plastic on the inside near the door handle. remove the actuator rod, then the 4, 10mm nuts. There may be another 1-2 Phillips screws the hold the plate holder, all from the inside. The plate holder can then be pulled loose, along the broken handle. Reverse to reassemble. Do clean all of the door catches, latches, pivot points and lube well. I'm guessing the latches get stiff, and the plastic handle can't handle the extra force.

<img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/rodent.gif" alt="" />

Thanks for the instructions. I located a 92 model minutes ago about an hour away from here.

Just wanted to let you guys know he bought a new handle the other day and installed it today. As always, thanks for your help.