Vintage Cars: Door latch, striker plate, door latch

Question
Hi, I am a new owner of a 73MGB.  My 12 year old son and I are learning as we go.  The passenger door latch will not catch and keep the door shut.  Is this a rookie "DIY" issue or are we off to the garage? thanks

Answer
Apologies if you got a part-answer before (browser problem)...

Tricky without a picture. AllExperts allows pictures, if you can do that: (i) straight on, with door closed, so I can see the gaps around it; (ii) door open, closer views of the latch (the door part) and the striker (bolted to the frame).

As you can work out with some thought, there are many possible geometry problems in doors, but listing them would be a bit exhaustive. For most, I think you will be able to DIY. I will just mention one major one that you can't do: frame sag, where there's a slight downward bend in the frame, leading to the (sum of the) body-to-frame gaps at the bottom of the door being larger than at the top. But if the door fits more or less well in the frame, you should be OK with adjustment.

Most likely is the striker being worn from small misalignment of door or striker. If it's worn, that's OK: the striker plate is not expensive; and whether it needs replacing or not, the misfit can be adjusted either on the door hinges or at the striker. Post pics if you can.

If you haven't already, contact Moss Motors or Victoria for a parts catalog before you go further. The exploded diagrams are very helpful even before you buy parts.

Jo