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Who’s drilled out a trunk lock?

13K views 33 replies 19 participants last post by  EuwingKelly 
#1 ·
My cars sat a few years, the trunk key turns the lock but does not unlatch it. I have a firewall behind where the back seat used to be, and a fuel cell mounted center the trunk. Is drilling the lock the best option?
Frankie
 
#5 ·
Been a LONG time ago for me BUT I'm wondering, IF the key is turning the lock and you drill the lock out, wouldn't turning it with a screwdriver or such be the same as what the lock is doing now? <img src="http://www.chevelles.com/forums/images/smilies/confused.gif" border="0" alt="" title="Confused" class="inlineimg" />
I’m wondering the same. I’m gonna check with a locksmith before I do any more damage.
Locksmith
 
#6 ·
Frankie,
This might sound stupid but are you sure that maybe it is actually unlatching it but the trunk lid is stuck down by the weatherstripping from sitting for so long ? Maybe have somebody pull up on the lid while you turn the key.
 
#9 ·
Re: Who’s drilled out a trunk lock?

And try pushing down on the lid while turning the key
^^^And then pull it up after turning the key.
 
#8 ·
I agree with the lid being held by the weatherstrip.

And yes, if the key is turning the cylinder, drilling it out wont't help.
 
#12 ·
Re: Who’s drilled out a trunk lock?



Consider removing the back seat and entering the trunk to access from inside. Remove lock cylinder clip and lock cylinder and loosen fasteners at latch mechanism to free up any possible jam. Then you can use a screw driver at the latch mechanism instead of the key. Possible something is broken in the latch mechanism. You can get it open without further damage to work on or replace.
 
#13 ·
Re: Who’s drilled out a trunk lock?

Consider removing the back seat and entering the trunk to access from inside. Remove lock cylinder clip and lock cylinder and loosen fasteners at latch mechanism to free up any possible jam. Then you can use a screw driver at the latch mechanism instead of the key. Possible something is broken in the latch mechanism. You can get it open without further damage to work on or replace.
but but but;
My cars sat a few years, the trunk key turns the lock but does not unlatch it. I have a firewall behind where the back seat used to be, and a fuel cell mounted center the trunk.
...
Frankie
 
#15 ·
maybe buy/borrow a scope camera thingy and reach it in through an opening in the firewall, just to see what the issue may be.
 
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#16 ·
Re: Who’s drilled out a trunk lock?

Put powered graphite in it then put the key in and take it out a few times, you can also try hitting the key with a rubber hammer while trying to turn it, I had luck a few times with that method. If not plan B is taking a screw driver or chisel that will sort of fit into the key slot and hitting it with a hammer till you feel the tumbler break, then it will open with a screw driver.
 
#17 ·
Re: Who’s drilled out a trunk lock?

Put powered graphite in it then put the key in and take it out a few times, you can also try hitting the key with a rubber hammer while trying to turn it, I had luck a few times with that method. If not plan B is taking a screw driver or chisel that will sort of fit into the key slot and hitting it with a hammer till you feel the tumbler break, then it will open with a screw driver.

Pretty sure he said in his post that the key was turning the lock, just not unlatching it.
 
#23 ·
Re: Who’s drilled out a trunk lock?



Not sure he would have access to the trunk with a firewall but I like this idea if it ever happens to my convertible. I had an issue already and was able to get in only because I didn't have a top installed yet. This would certainly work for most Chevelles without a firewall. Obviously I would have to remove the back seat and divider/insulation in my case. Thanks
 
#21 ·
Re: Who’s drilled out a trunk lock?

Here is a video on how to drill a Trunk lock..
You will need,
A drill,
Two Drill Bits, because one will break.
Screw Driver.
Sandals.
A side kick with a Pressure Washer.
And dont forget to NOT wear eye protection..

 
#24 ·
Re: Who’s drilled out a trunk lock?

Thanks everyone for the input. I tried the above suggestions before posting. I'm letting a locksmith take care of it tomorrow. He said he's done many; and I surely wouldn't want to scratch the paint or do further damage. I'll post the results tomorrow.

Frankie
 
#27 ·
Trunk is open. The locksmith had to drill out the lock. Been a long day and I wasn’t able to be here when he did it. He said the sleeve the lock cylinder fits inside of is not correct to the ‘69 and causes the cylinder to drag. He is correct in his assumption the lock has never felt quiet right. I’ve had the car for 10 years. So I need to find out exactly what The “sleeve” is and hunt one up. He worked on it for about an hour and a half. He brought old parts with him for repair. So I can use it, temporarily. Good enough to get us to the track this weekend, weather permitting.
Thanks for all the advice.
Frankie
 
#31 ·
I think the guy in the video with the Pressure Washer Sidekick did a good job.. Sandals and all.. He even found treasure in that Caddy Trunk..
 
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