IWC patio door handle/locking mechanism not working

Question

when we unlock our IWC patio door handle, the mechanism that causes the door to be locked "retreats" all the way into the casing (IMG 6624). We have to dig it out with a screwdriver and then we can lock the door.
What do we need to buy to replace this mechanism? And, how hard is it for someone who is marginally handy to fix? Any videos?
Thanks.

Tom · Accepted Answer

If I'm understanding your description, it sounds like maybe the spring in the mortise is shot. You can snap it back in easy enough, but then it wont extend when you flip the thumb lever.

The solution to this is thankfully very easy: simply replace the mortise. For your door, I recommend the 82-218. This looks very similar to the mortise in your photos and I believe it will fix the issue. Installation is also easy, as demonstrated by the video below.

One thing to note about installation is that you really have to keep a firm hand on the mortise when you're putting it in so that it doesn't fall into the door. The video covers this, but it happens often enough that I feel obliged to emphasize it. That is an unfortunate flaw in the design of this mortise but it won't be an issue as long as you're mindful of it.