Classic/Antique Car Repair: 1950 Packard driver door latch, bob blankenship, door latch

Question
Put repair kit in my drivers side door latch.  I used the cog marked L.  The door closes all the way but let go about 1/4" when tugged at.  This regardless of placing the striker in all positions.  I checked the old cog and another junk latch mechanism and found that the cog in those was marked R. I have redone several times with L. cog.  Should I try the R marked one in the left door.  I have a new four door  regal
repair kit and it is marked for left side and for right side.  If I were to install the L one it would be oriented just like the one I have rebuilt several times.  I am buffaloed.  Would like to obtain a good operating latch as first choice or should I try the R cog in the left door.  The spring contact part of the cog would be offset from the striker contact in the other direction from the L marked one.

Bob Blankenship
828-497-9709

Answer
I have found instance where they were honestly reversed, and I have found them fit better using the opposites. If you can make R work, go for it.

Also, I have had to blend parts old and new because some worked and some didn't. In my experience, what will make a good closure is your best choice.