1967-1972 Dodge P300 Door Lock Kit Replacement Guide
Secure your classic Dodge P300 by replacing worn or broken door lock cylinders.
- For this vintage vehicle, new aftermarket parts are the only practical option; OEM parts are not available.
- The most common replacement is the Standard Ignition (SMP) kit, which includes locks for both doors and a new set of keys.
- Replacement is a feasible DIY task, requiring basic tools and removal of the interior door panel.
- Your new door keys will not match your old ignition key unless you have a locksmith re-key the new cylinders.
Symptoms of a Failing Door Lock Kit
The door locks on a vintage work vehicle like the P300 see a lot of use and abuse. After five decades, failure is common. Here’s what to look for:
- Key is Hard to Insert or Turn: Decades of wear, dirt, and grime can build up inside the lock cylinder, making it difficult for the key to operate smoothly. Sometimes the internal tumblers are simply worn out.
- Lock Cylinder is Loose or Spins: The lock cylinder is held in the door by a simple metal clip. If this clip breaks, rusts, or falls off, the entire lock cylinder can become loose or even spin in place when you try to use the key.
- Key Doesn't Lock or Unlock the Door: You can turn the key, but nothing happens. This often points to a problem with the connection between the lock cylinder and the door latch. The small lever on the back of the cylinder may be broken, or the metal rod connecting it to the latch may have popped off, often due to a broken plastic or metal clip.
- Key Won't Go In At All: This can happen if the lock has been damaged in a break-in attempt or if an internal component has failed and is blocking the keyway.
A Note on OEM vs. Aftermarket
For a vehicle as old as the 1967-1972 P300, new original equipment manufacturer (OEM) door lock kits are no longer produced by Dodge. Any "OEM" parts you find would be New Old Stock (NOS), which are rare, expensive, and may have degraded over time. For this part, new aftermarket is the only practical and available choice. Brands like Standard Ignition (also known as Standard Motor Products or SMP) produce direct-fit replacements that meet the original specifications.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Door Lock Kit
For the 1967-1972 Dodge P300, the selection of aftermarket door lock kits is limited. The primary available option is from Standard Ignition, a long-established brand in the automotive aftermarket.
- Standard Ignition (DLK1): This is a widely available kit that includes two lock cylinders (driver and passenger side), two matching keys, gaskets, and the necessary retaining clips. It's designed to be a direct replacement for the original locks. The construction typically features die-cast zinc lock cores with brass tumblers and chrome-plated keys, which is appropriate for this vehicle's era.
Pro Tip: Check Your Ignition Key
Aftermarket door lock kits come with their own set of keys. This means your new door key will NOT match your ignition key. If you want a single key for both, a professional locksmith may be able to re-key the new door cylinders to match your existing ignition key, provided the key blanks are compatible.
Replacement Overview
Replacing the door lock cylinders is a straightforward job that most DIY mechanics can handle. The process generally involves removing the inner door panel, reaching inside the door to detach the clip holding the lock rod to the cylinder, removing the main retaining clip, and then pulling the old cylinder out from the outside of the door. Installation is the reverse of removal. The most common difficulty is dealing with tight spaces inside the door and maneuvering the new clips and rods into place.
| Part Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket (Standard Ignition) | $28.19 |
| New OEM | Not Available |
| Used OEM | Varies (Salvage Yard) |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $200 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What comes in a typical door lock kit?
A standard kit for the P300 includes two door lock cylinders, two matching keys, gaskets, and the retaining clips needed to hold the cylinders in the door.
Will I need special tools for the installation?
No special tools are required. You will need basic hand tools like a screwdriver set and possibly pliers to remove the door panel and manipulate the retaining clips. A flashlight is also highly recommended.
Do I have to replace both door locks at the same time?
The kits are sold with two matched locks. While you could replace only the broken one, it's best to replace both. This ensures both locks operate smoothly and that a single new key works for both doors, eliminating key clutter.
Can a frozen or stuck lock be repaired instead of replaced?
Sometimes, a lock that is simply stiff can be freed up by cleaning it and applying a penetrating lubricant like WD-40, followed by a proper lock lubricant like graphite or Lubriplate. However, if the lock is truly worn out or the internal tumblers are damaged, replacement is the only reliable solution.
Technical Specifications
Kit includes two door lock cylinders, two matching keys, gaskets, and retaining clips.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.