Having problems locking the boot

Post by **JLA1327** » Mon Dec 08, 2008 5:43 pm

Just took delivery of my nice shiny new/old Morris. Slight problem. unlocked the boot and opened it no probs. But can't get it to lock again. Boot engages with the lock plate when I slam it (gently) but I just can't turn the handle round from horizontal to vertical (9 stone weakling) to lock.

Any tips as to how on earth I get the handle to turn?

Yes I have tried what I thought was obvious, pressing the buton (where the key goes in) in on the centre of the handle but the button doesn't go in - should it?

Any tips very graetfully received, if not I'll have to tie it shut with a shoe lace....

Ta

JLA

Post by **PSL184** » Mon Dec 08, 2008 5:47 pm

Mate the handle doesn't turn to lock - just the lock part itself....

Post by **rayofleamington** » Mon Dec 08, 2008 8:10 pm

yes - presuming it is a saloon... The handle goes to horizontal when the catch is closed (may take a bit of a push if the catch is tight, pulling the lid against the boot seal).
When horizontal, just turn the key to lock it.

Post by **bmcecosse** » Tue Dec 09, 2008 7:46 pm

Welcome to the Forum, and to Minor ownership ! Is the problem now sorted? If the lock barrel is tight (or frozen) a squirt of WD40 into the key opening helps considerably.

Post by **JLA1327** » Wed Dec 10, 2008 10:48 pm

Many thanks to everyone for the help.

Yes, WD40 solved the stuck lock where the key goes in, the key now goes round.

Have managed to get the handle lined up the right way, now I know what the right way is, and engaged with the catch.

However, it pops open when I lock it.... I think I may have to get at it with a screw driver, and see if the locking plate on the boot will move forward, as I can't get enough of a push to get it to engage properly with the boot lid.

On the plus side I have manged to attach a photo of the offending machine for you to admire!

Thanks again.<br>

<br>

Post by **mike.perry** » Thu Dec 11, 2008 11:33 am

Check the lock catch for wear. This can stop it engaging securely. You should be able to adjust the locking plate to compensate.

Post by **ferret76** » Fri Dec 19, 2008 4:49 am

Once the lock is working, squirt some graphite powder in it. Much better for locks than water dispersant spray.

Post by **Longdog** » Sun Dec 21, 2008 8:29 am

Hi JLA car looks nice, you will in time get used to all the Morris's idiosyncrasies, they have a few even when rebuilt with meticulous attention to detail.If it's any consolation the bootlock on my Audi arses about all the time and thats only 6 months old and German