What's the trick to having perfect/smooth door latches? I'm finishing my 3+ year restoration and my latches need tlc. My drivers side just needs a couple rods, and I think it'll work great. My drivers side won't open though unless I hold up on the door lock, and even then it's a task. Do I need a new latch rods or just need to adjust?  

Both.  You can get new hinges, then after they are installed and adjusted, you can fine tune with the latches.