This is, sadly, one of many non-life threatening problems I have been living with which proved embarrassing this weekend. The lock on the lid and the auto unlock feature on my 945T will not allow the lid to be opened from the outside. The handle doesn't move and the key only turns counterclockwise, which I think is to lock the door. It will not turn clockwise to unlock it. The inside release works, but I had forgotten this when I loaded up and then could not get near the inside release. I thought it was a problem with the lock cylinder itself, but no amount of graphite (and then WD40 in desperation) changed anything. I couldn't find any relevant info in the FAQ, and removing the cylinder didn't seem obvious. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks.

Jim Weiss
83 245T/M46, 90 744T/M46, 90 760T,
93 945T (temporarily with 13 cu ft freezer), want more ...

Open the tailgate from the inside, remove the rear panel, and look for a detached rod or part on the lock mechanism.

That's why this is so frustrating. I've already done that, and nothing is loose, but nothing moves. The cylinder just doesn't turn clockwise.

Jim

I had to take the cyl out and soak it in solvent and wiggle it loose, it was filled with white powder and locked solid. I used "Break Free". You have nothing to lose.

AHA! Thanks - Now, if I can figure how to remove the cylinder - any hints?

Jim

With my '92...

I removed the trim piece that holds the license plate bulbs / door handle / lock (can't remember if this was actually needed) after the lock had been disconnected from the two control rods. After that (if my memory is correct), the cylinder is captured with a flat clip, which can be pryed off. There may be more steps than this - but they are pretty obvious when the thing is apart.

With some effort, the whole lock came apart (tumblers and all) for a scrub down with copper wool and a PBlaster bath.