Thumb Latch is ready to fall off my AW sliding door

Quick Learner from Fort Wayne Indiana

Jan 1, 2013 2:37 pm

I have an older ( pre 86 ? ) Anderson Patio Door and the Thumb Latch seems as if it's going to break off at any time... Do I need just the Thunb Latch or is the internal locking mechanism going bad as well ?

Which Model #'s might these be ???

I believe it's an old reachout lock

I have attached Pics

Thanx, Okey

User submitted photos of patio door hardware.

6 Replies

Dave Sr. from SWISCO

Jan 3, 2013 12:25 pm

Thanks for posting! I think that replacing the thumb latch is a good idea at this point. Take a look at our 82-043. As for the inside mortise lock, I would first try to lubricate it with a silicone spray, then check to see if the striker/keeper is adjusted properly so that it can meet the mortise lock in the door. If you want to replace the mortise lock, see part 82-037.

Quick Learner from Fort Wayne, Indiana

Jan 4, 2013 8:36 am

Ok, thank you. I think that will fit up just fine and i'll try the silicone spray.

Quick Learner from Boston, MA

Jan 6, 2013 7:27 pm

Wow same lock with the same issue. The thumb latch has play from dead center to +/- 30 degrees and is not flush with the plate. The play part of a defectve thumb latch or the internal lock ? My assumption is that the bearing the lever is attached to is loose but what do I know
Please give advice

Tom from SWISCO

Jan 7, 2013 9:19 am

To be honest, it could be either. You could remove the latch and try to throw the mortise lock without it to see if it still has play. If so, then that's what you will want to replace.

Home Owner from Acton, Mass

Jan 17, 2013 9:47 am

Same door ('94 install), same issue.
The latch had been getting progressively more difficult to operate. Had to sort of align it and give it a good twist. Finally took the thumb latch out last Saturday and it fell apart in my hands. The neck had gotten grooved down over time and the pin that held the tongue was just barely holding on. I was surprised it hadn't broken apart earlier. I plan to buy at least one standby replacement latch for my other door of this type that receives frequent use and I will do the PM you suggest above.
Thanks