Hatch cable broke?

[VonKaiser]

My hatch can't be opened with the lever by the driver's seat on the floor or the key in the lock on the hatch. So, how do I open the hatch and repair what caused it to not open (what I think is the cable?).

Thoughts?

[scorpion1]

if its the same setup as the 89 crawl in the back and remove the plastic cover and manually flip the switch. (rear plastic panel is one piece and lifts up and off) Though mine was broken since I got it so I have no idea where the clips to hold it are located.

[winc]

Might also try lifting the release lever while another person lifts on the hatch. My bump-stops were adjusted too far in and the hatch wouldn't release with the lever, but after screwing the stops out some, it releases with an affirming "pop" now. If that don't work, then likely the cable is broken.

[allmotor]

get a big crow bar and start prying

[looneytuner]

Try turning the key while pressing down on the hatch. If that doesn't work, you have to take the interior cover off. There is a spring to release the lock when the key is turned. It is either broken, or the latch mechanism is gunked with petrified grease. A good hose down with PB Blaster to clean off the grease should get it working again.

Allmotor, I LOVE your helpfulness. I'm just as weird!

[VonKaiser]

Quote:

Originally Posted by scorpion1 if its the same setup as the 89 crawl in the back and remove the plastic cover and manually flip the switch. (rear plastic panel is one piece and lifts up and off) Though mine was broken since I got it so I have no idea where the clips to hold it are located.

I'm pretty sure its the same as the '89.

Quote:

Originally Posted by winc Might also try lifting the release lever while another person lifts on the hatch. My bump-stops were adjusted too far in and the hatch wouldn't release with the lever, but after screwing the stops out some, it releases with an affirming "pop" now. If that don't work, then likely the cable is broken.

That's a good idea. But, if that doesn't work and the cable is broke how do I replace it?

Quote:

Originally Posted by allmotor get a big crow bar and start prying

Uhg, lol iI don't wan't to damage the car.

Quote:

Originally Posted by looneytuner Try turning the key while pressing down on the hatch. If that doesn't work, you have to take the interior cover off. There is a spring to release the lock when the key is turned. It is either broken, or the latch mechanism is gunked with petrified grease. A good hose down with PB Blaster to clean off the grease should get it working again.

That's some good info too. The car has been sitting for 5+ years BTW, so I wouldn't be surprised if alot of that stuff has seized or froze.

[xtrempickup]

is the cable broken, if so, get a pair of pliers and another person to lift the hatch while you pull whats left

[VonKaiser]

Quote:

Originally Posted by xtrempickup is the cable broken, if so, get a pair of pliers and another person to lift the hatch while you pull whats left

Dude, that's a damn good idea. I'll know next weekend.

[NAJ]

If the cable is like my 90 it is one assembly for the fuel door and hatch that runs from front to rear.