Morris Minor Owners Club

Poor old Beanie got broken into a couple of days ago, as a result the drivers door lock is stuffed. I have a complete set of new locks on order (driver's door, boot and ignition) and although I have a fairly basic know-how in regards to the magic art of locksmithery, I was wondering if anyone had any tips on painless installation.

In case anyone is interested, the only thing taken was a torch from the glove box. They left all my parking money and my tools. Perhaps the thieves were only seeking enlightenment.

Like mine I think your car probably has the pull start. I've seen people who drive moggies everyday put in the key, turn it and then sit back puzzled.. Sorry to hear about the break-in.

Unfortunately, to change the doorlock does mean taking off the internal doorcard and then removing the upper door part (the door top that houses the window). Once this is removed then the barrel of the door lock can be removed. Do you have a manual as this job is covered in it.

I have a manual but strangely it only covers the removal of the passengers side handle and lock assembly and doesn't mention anything about having to pull the door apart. I'm sure I'll manage it though.

Mine is a pull start and people do find it confusing. I had a very sheepish phone call from a mechanic at a franchise-type auto service place asking if I could kindly describe what to do after turning the key. I resisted the temptation to direct him to the starter handle in the boot.

Yep, I had the same trouble when mine stopped by the side of the road. A kind gent stopped and I produced the starting handle - I think he thought I was going to hit him with it, until I fitted it in the hole in the front valence! He started the car for me and was last seen driving off to tell his friends about how he'd stated an "old car" with a handle.

Back to the door problem, if I remember correctly, you have to wind down the window fully after you've removed the doorcard, and then there are various screws that hold the assembly (top of door) in. Once these have been removed get hold of the door top firmly and rock it from side to side - its quite hard - if it doesn't move check for more screws! This then gradually moves up and exposes the door lock. The barrel can then be changed. Fitting it is simply(!) reversing removal I do hope this helps.