Rear trunk lid

Well, the emergency cable was not attached. I had taken off the rear wheel, and removed the hardware holding the rear plastic wheel shield. I found the cable and pulled gently and inch or two, but all I felt was it sliding through the sheath. I then tried to access the opening to the trunk. Unfortunately, as much as I could reach around and try to access the way into the trunk, I could not. I did follow the cable to the grommet, but that is still outside the compartment. How someone said he could see the latch is beyond me. Anyway, I removed the spoiler and started to feel around for the nuts on the bracket attached to the lid. I only had very minor success. I managed to turn one about 1/4 turn (two 1/8 turns), and then had to turn the wrench around. I couldn't get it on again. I tried the other one, and could not even find it. I will look for a longer wrench and/or a slim box end with a ratchet. This will take patience. Fortunately, I do have the time. You now know as much as I do, and maybe more.

[nicecar]

I guess you could be more aggressive lifting the lid since a new lid is an option that you may have to take. I think with the thin wrench and patience with more of a gap you will succeed. let us know

[DMage]

Maybe a good time to upgrade to DEPO tail lights? If I was in the situation I'd dremel them apart and go in through the tail light opening, then replace them with aftermarket ones as they are on my list anyway.

Although if you were going to stay stock I'd bet you could pick one up for way less than $150 for a new lid and paint.

[78F350]

Originally Posted by DMage

Maybe a good time to upgrade to DEPO tail lights? If I was in the situation I'd dremel them apart and go in through the tail light opening,

Brilliant! With the left tail removed I can easily reach the latch assembly. If the plastic cover is still on, it will be held in place by the closed lid and two phillips screws. It is probably easier to destroy the plastic cover than the metal parts of the trunk. I have a spare 01 base tail and latch and I expect Woody has a few laying around cheap.

[78F350]

Here's the latch mechanism on my 01 parts car:


It unlatches by moving the lever to the direction of the red arrow. If you are willing to take an invasive approach, you may be able to drill through from the center-back of the trunk and insert a tool to push on it.

Originally Posted by nicecar

I think with the thin wrench and patience with more of a gap you will succeed. let us know