Trunk / Boot Lid Lock stuffed, can't open...

[OzSpider]

Hi Team,

Anyone got any tips on how to get a trunk (Boot in Australian English) open when the lock is a mess?

The key will turn clockwise about 180 degrees, but it feels like the whole lock barrel is spinning and the key is very loose. Is the catch a cable operated or some kind of lever or rod?

https://photos.app.goo.gl/bwMjhEkDYYy6zjZQ6

[tima01864]

This may help
http://www.hwww.fiatspider.com/f15/view ... ey#p297465

[18Fiatsandcounting]

Before you resort to drilling holes or using a crowbar, try this: Press down on the trunk lid in the center just above where the latch mechanism is. Try turning the key, and at the same time pressing and releasing on this spot. My thinking is that your trunk release mechanism (rod) has become unhinged, but if you relieve the pressure on the latch and striker, you may be able to get it to release that one final time so that you can take it apart and fix it. Here's hoping.

-Bryan

[OzSpider]

Thanks for both responses. Will do a better forum search next time. .

Tried applying force and movement during key turns, but nothing going. Doesn't feel like there is any connection between the key and the trunk latch. Will get the drill out later today when I can find a grommet and drill a hole size to suit.

[DieselSpider]

Better than the other option used on mine by a previous owner which was to cut a large ragged triangular hole in the firewall between the trunk and rear seat back to get to it from there.

[spider2081]

The key will turn clockwise about 180 degrees

I realize I'm a late posting this but my latch releases when the key is turned counter clockwise

[18Fiatsandcounting]

Good thought above about turning the key counter-clockwise. Also, from the picture there seems to be a small hole in the rear panel, about 2" to the left of the keyhole. Any chance of inserting a thin curved / bent metal rod into that hole, and seeing if you can trip the release lever on the latch mechanism?

-Bryan

[aj81spider]

I just looked at the picture. Is that lock in the right place? It looks pretty close to the tail light. On all the Spiders I'm familiar with the lock is at the center of the car. Probably not your problem, but it just looks odd.

[18Fiatsandcounting]

Some later model years (I forget which) had the keyhole offset to the passenger side, and I'm guessing it was to allow the license plate to sit higher (federal regulations??).

This video has some pretty good pictures and explains the unlocking process: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h-1QGUzHvcs

Coincidentally, this video has a '75 spider just like OzSpider.

-Bryan

[OzSpider]

Success and hole drilling avoided, for now at least.

Pressure, counter-clockwise turn while holding breath worked!

Waited for key to snap and click open.

Will update this post with photos of what I found when I can get to a computer.

[18Fiatsandcounting]

Pressure, counter-clockwise turn while holding breath worked!

Good work, Oz! Waving chicken bones also helps, or so I've heard. Just for future reference.

-Bryan

[OzSpider]

Look at this Trunk of gifts....



Apparently the original fuel tanks wasn't functional? So just use a boat fuel tank...

At least the spare rim looks original.

[tima01864]

Good call spider2081!

[spider2081]

Success

Some owners install an emergency release cable for the trunk latch similar to the hood emergency release cable. Its routed into the trunk by the right side bumper shock grommet to the latch mechanism.
An electric release could be added like the 83-85 Spiders have also.