Hood release, trunk release - both work, but require 2-handed release! Fix?

[DeLorean]

The hood does not really matter, cause I can easily do a 2 hand release. I pull, and lift and it opens right up. The trunk (engine cover) is the same way, but my arms are not long enough to do this easily.

Is there an easy fix for this? They don't "pop up" when you pull the release, and that's all it needs to do for it to work properly...

[Rich]

3 solutions for non-popping engine cover. Assuming the cause is friction between the rear of the cover and the front of the rear fascia.

Also assuming you have lubed your latch linkages and nothing is bound up.

1. Quickie: Lift either of the rear corners of the engine cover up just enough to jam a small stiff piece of plastic or wood under it. A pencil might do it. Leave it there while you pull the release.
2. Better: Find some stiff urethane or silicone block stock. Cut it to size and glue it to the top of the rear panel to the left or right of the cover latch. You want to create a rubber "spring" that will just pop the engine cover when the latch releases, overcoming the friction, not something that distorts the cover.
3. Best: If there is room for the adjustment loosen the nuts on the engine cover hinges and move the cover forward to create more clearance to the rear fascia. No friction, latch releases.

Good that you are asking the question about repairing it. Unlikely you will have a fire in the engine bay - very likely that if you do you'll be glad your engine cover opens reliably.

[sean]

Replace this guy in your trunk latch:
http://store.delorean.com/p-9593-spring-latch.aspx
7153

[David T]

First make sure nothing is rubbing. On the front it may be the loop on the hood rubbing hard on the latch. Adjust the latch so the loop drops right in the center without rubbing. On the engine cover you might have to adjust the hinges or the rear facia so the cover doesn't rub. Next, you may have to replace or shorten the small spring so the latch can "pop" up the cover or the hood. Make sure everything is lubricated and the hood hinges are not rusted out.
Finally, add a back-up cable just in case the primary cable should break. You are correct, it should not be a 2 man operation to open the hood or the engine cover.
David Teitelbaum