Anybody have any tricky suggestions as to how to get my bonnet opened. Appears the release cable has stretched or the adjustment to the release mechanism has loosened off. Tried just about everything to get it opened with no success.

Cut the handle in half & unscrew it off the latch underneath, then buy a new handle.

have a handle for you
maybe a cable if need
will post

Hi

This is what you need to do with lever to get just a bit more travel that can sometimes pull the cable enough open the bonnet. You pull the lever over so that it can go past its normal stop.

Steve

If Steves method doesn't work, try the following. Its a bit brutal, but you can try threading an old towell through the handle, then grab each end of the towell and pull down towards the ground with a swift strong pull. Maybe have someone else on the lever at the same time. This might shock the lock open. Worked for me years ago
Cheers

am in M'field Sundaypm, if u r keen I can bring the handle and help

Sorry guys, been a busy time over the last few months but appreciate your advice. I'll give the 'non brutal' ones a go and see how I get on.

There is a VW Workshop Bulletin released in May 1972 - Repair instructions for hood lock cable
With the five methods of repair, most covered above.
I can scan and send it to you
or if someone can show me how to post pics on the forum.

Thanks Everyone, I actually got the bonnet opened with the tea towel method..............but, oh my God !!!..........how do I stop this from happening every time I close the damn thing ??

I've tried to adjust the latch, catch, cable .....nearly everything, but it still happens 2 out of 3 times. I'm getting a bit tired of asking strangers passing by to help me open the thing !

Have you tried a bit of Inox or WD40 on it - mine gets hard to open if it gets too dry

Lube the cable, the best way is to disconnect the cablet from the lock and put the end somewhere higher than the lock lever and drip some oil down, that will make it silky smooth.

as a safety measure I attach another piece of wire to the lock and run it outside the body near the rear of the headlight bucket then you can also hide a spare key under the bonnet, if you get locked out of the car just undo the bonnet from under the car.

I'll try both of these ideas but I do like the 'back-up' unlock method. DO you use any particular type of wire ?

Quote:

Originally posted by vinsueball Thanks Everyone, I actually got the bonnet opened with the tea towel method..............but, oh my God !!!..........how do I stop this from happening every time I close the damn thing ?? think i will become a vw consultant as I am travelling a lot and housesitting in your region and fix it for you..

Thanks guys, sounds like the flexi stainless might be the go !! Once I get this done think I'll posting it in the For Sale section. Been a great project and ride but I haven't had it on the road for nearly 6 months.....