Tioptime79

Hi All. Anybody have experience getting a latch open when it's stuck? When I squeeze the latch to open, it is like something is blocking it and it won't compress. I have a new latch, but I can't figure out how to remove the broken one if I can't get it to open. I don't want to damage the headliner in the hardtop. Any help would be appreciated. Cheers!
CV

Manga_Spawn

If you look where the hook is you can put a screwdriver or some other thing in there and release it. There is sort of a flap or piece of metal that slides. It’s really hard to explain but if you mess with it a little you should be able to figure it out.

Tioptime79

Thanks, but whatever is jammed or broken inside hasn't given way yet. Something inside the "slider" that you squeeze to release has apparently broken off and is blocking the whole mechanism from moving. The hook doesn't want to budge. I'll have to try more force/leverage. I don't care if I break the latch. I've got a replacement. I'll keep trying.
CV

bw993

The other thing you can do is to try and remove the striker, which will release the tension on the latch.

Tioptime79

Thanks...I'll try that this weekend. Cheers! I appreciate the suggestions.

Tioptime79

I finally went "old school" and used a large pair of channel lock pliers to squeeze the latch. It finally gave way and Presto, the sucker came loose and is now working. Some tiny scratches, but since I have a replacement (it's JDM and a lot nicer than the original), it's all good. Cheers!