Stuck rear lid key/lock ‘88 80Q

[Kneale Brownson]

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That black panel has one Phillips head screw and some loose snap-on catches
holding it in place if it's a 200q20v and, I assume,  other models of the
100-200 eras.  The V8 panel just snaps into place.  I presume you don't
have a 5K model because my versions of those don't have any cover on the lock.

With the panel off, a really long pair of something that can grip a small
rod (Needlenose pliers, etc.) would allow you to grasp the latch activation
rod and move it enough to release the latch.

Barring some tool to move the rod,  the lock assembly is held in place by a
pair of 8 mm nuts.  I'd think a socket and several extensions would get it
loose.  I also think that if it's loose, you could wiggle the assembly
enough to activate the latch release without disconnecting either the rod
or the lever from the vacuum locking system.  Note that one of the nuts is
readily apparent to the driver side of the lock assembly while the other is
available through a hole in the trunklid stiffening support.

At 12:32 AM 07/10/2002 -0400, MXHOWES at aol.com wrote:

>OK, my son tried to unlock the rear (trunk, deck, lid..)and got the key
>jammed, it won't turn left or right and the lock button/key is pushed in,
>it's sitting at a 2 o'clock position and stuck! I removed the rear seat and
>luckily I have a ski sack and was able to remove it and retrieve the
>groceries (one at a time).I can see the panel which covers the back of the
>lock, but it is along way to try to do anything thru a 6"x12" hole. I am
>trying not to break off the key...but I'm looking for a trick fix from you
>BTDT people....
>
>Any suggestions
>
>Thanks Jim
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