2002 astro, 2nd rear door handle, mounted on inside, broke. cannot get door open. tried to remove panel but screws are covered at bottom by door being closed! Any way to release the top latch to get door open? This is my work truck.
John

 

well admiral ....... the trick is in getting to the vertical center of the closed doors. There is a long rod to the top and bottom that works from the center handle. If you can pull back the covering panel that covers the broken handle and move the bottom and top linkage, you should be able to release the locking pins. There is a way the chevy mechanics repair this problem ..... which is not so uncommon. At most the fix may cost you a panel as well as a new handle. I have changed and adjusted some of these ..... keep them lubricated, as the factory grease tend to dry up over the years and with heavy use. Also .... if you can get a small screwdriver past the broken part, you may be able to rotate the rod guide ever so slightly. ... good luck.

 

Thank you. just got back from vacation and will give it a try in the morning. Will let you know how I make out.
John