a retainer apparatus including a retainer clip having a back component , a pair of side plate components , and a pair of front plate components that hold a retractor mechanism for extending and retracting a latch of a lock assembly . the retainer apparatus allows the retractor mechanism to be pre - assembled , ready for connection to a pre - assembled chassis of the lock assembly . one embodiment of the retainer clip is a single formed piece having a back component with at least one post for supporting a spring , side components to provide a bearing surface to slide the retractor mechanism , and front components angled inward to retain the retractor mechanism and the latch . a plurality of prongs extend from the retainer clip to receive the chassis of the lock assembly .