can't get engine lid to open - '88 80Q

[Huw Powell]

> Lately the hood release mechanism has been requiring more and more force 
> to release the engine lid. Now it seems there's nothing doing when I pull 
> on it. I am able to release only the driver's right side of the engine 
> lid.

You're hood cable (cheap) is most likely stretched a bit... a good time 
to get a new one!

> Page 55.5 of my Bentley shows (sort of) how the cable actuates the release 
> under the hood, but to me it seems to leave a lot to the imagination.

Yes the bentley is like that.  Sample instructions for clutch 
replacement: remove enerything in the way, change clutch, reassemble.

But here is how it works:  The cable you pull, pulls two seperate 
catches "together" - one on the right, one on the left.  If it 
stretches, as it will, over 200,000 or so miles, the left one no longer 
catches and releases.

You will need to repair or at least readjust (I recommed replacemnt 
parts!) the hood release cable.

> I tried accessing the release through the front grille, but still can only 
> get the driver's right side to release by sliding the center hook (the 
> one you'd normally slide with your hand) to the right. I can only move it 
> a certain distance, as the lid is stuck tight on the right side, just to 
> the right of center.

If you "know" where you're looking, you can get in there with a coat 
hanger type "tool" and release the unlocking side.

Once you do, though, you need to order parts and fix it, or it will 
"suck" to deal with all winter... sorry I don't have great pix on my 
site for this!

-- 
Huw Powell

http://www.humanspeakers.com/audi

http://www.humanthoughts.org/