96 Yukon -can't open driver's side door

[singletrackboy]

Something broke inside clearly, but how can I get the door panel off to access the internals with it closed? Neither inside or outside handles work.

 

[east302]

Wow, what a pain. Never tried it, but I'd try removing the panel from the inside. If you can get a c-shaped trim tool under the bottom edge and along the sides, you may be able to get the panel clips to disengage.

Pulling the seat would give more clearance, I guess.

Carefully breaking apart the outside door handle may be a last resort, and I'm not sure if it'd give you any better access. Hell, they're usually broken along the trim rings anyways.

 

[PG01]

Cant you get the power window switches out, get to it like that? betcha door lock clip broke... how about trim ring around inside handle and trying to unlock it that way? Or pull the door handle bar that way?

 

[east302]

Cant you get the power window switches out, get to it like that? betcha door lock clip broke... how about trim ring around inside handle and trying to unlock it that way? Or pull the door handle bar that way?

That's a good idea, didn't think about the lock rod. Definitely worth looking at.

I cannot remember how the handle attaches to the inner panel...maybe one rivet (or bolt if it's been replaced once before) and then kind of slides to the back and out to disengage?

 

[PG01]

That's a good idea, didn't think about the lock rod. Definitely worth looking at.

I cannot remember how the handle attaches to the inner panel...maybe one rivet (or bolt if it's been replaced once before) and then kind of slides to the back and out to disengage?

Just throwing ideas out..

 

[singletrackboy]

Thanks guys, got it! Trim ring on inside handle removed, was able to pry on the tabs and barely had enough room to lift the panel up and out.

 

[east302]

Did you get it opened?

 

[singletrackboy]

Yes. The lock was stuck somehow. Pulled on it and got it to unlock