glove box latch repair

[fordmerc]

glove box latch doesn't work - pushing the button does not open the latch, nor does the button have any spring resistance. I have removed the unit and can remove the lock cylinder, but I can't figure out what is wrong. The only spring is between the latch "arm" and the base of the unit. A diagram or a description of how it is supposed to work might help. I don't see anything broken, but I don't know what to look for. (My local "locksmith" was of no help) ('41 Packard 120) ( I did post this problem on the Packard forum but this seems to be a more generalized problem)

Advice appreciated

[fordmerc]

I'm adding images in the hope that someone can help me fix this latch

[Bhigdog]

Buy a new one. most likely you can find a generic match......................Bob

[Larry Schramm]

Is the arm that comes out the back supposed to have a tab on it to secure the door closed? It has been a while since I have seen one of these but that is my memory.??

[R Walling]

Soak it it penertrating oil. And maybe the striker plate will need adjusting.

[MarrsCars]

If you believe something inside is simply sticking you can always try powdered graphite in a tube, sold in the key/lock section of hardware stores. "Puff" a little powder inside then work the key, do it a few times and it may lubricate it enough to free up. Otherwise penetrating fluid as mentioned, but I like to try this first to avoid the soupy mess you sometimes get on your key every time you insert it if you do it in the opposite order, fluid then powder.

[Coley]

There is a small flat slider with a small tab on it that moves the latch, when the button is pushed.

Remove the cylinder with a key (depressing the lock pin) and see if pieces of the slider fall out.

Here is a picture of the slider and a GM latch.