70 Road Runner Inside door mechanicals

I have the "z" shaped rods and clips, and was able to attach them easily. I have yet to place the door locks in. My problem is that when depressing the door handle plunger, there is a terrific amount of resistance. What am I doing wrong? Thanks for any help!

do you have the correct side lock?

i am not sure if its correct or not but, they are not installed yet. I went for the z shaped bars first and then was going to install the locks....am i wrong??

the best way to see if there is any binding is check the action with the door panel off and see why its binding,you should be able to spot the problem.