Door handles on Mk 2

[dadrathers]

Need to replace the door handle on the passenger side of my Mk2 GTi 8v. Anybody know whether I can take the lock barrel out of the old one and put it into the 'new' one. I really don't want to have another key just for the passenger door!!!

Thanks if you can help.

[sc]

yeah the locks can be changed over pretty simple to do

[dadrathers]

Thanks SC - I will give it a go then - cheers.

[sacvwgolf]

to take the door handle off undo a screw in the inside of the door and take the shiny cover and there should be a screw there. then take the handle off and turn it around so all the mechinansim is facing you. there should be a little screw holding the lock barrel. take the lock barrel out and put in the new handle (helps if you have the key to mess with the barrel). do the screw up and put the handle back to the door. Having a haynes manual helps as it has pictures i think. 

[dadrathers]

Sounds straightforward, I have got a Haynes so will give it a go. Thanks for detailed description.

[sacvwgolf]

ok let me know if your stuck. i got stuck a few times changing my door handles but it is easy once you know what your doing.

[dadrathers]

Thanks. I need to get the replacement handle first - found  a new one on e-bay.

[dadrathers]

Ordered the door handle off e-bay, arrived within a few days. Easy to fit old lock in  new handle - only fiddly bit is the return spring. Refitted to car, all done - Yey

Thanks for advice - good to be given the confidence that the job is not a right pig.