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OK my hatch pull-down motor works, as does my hatch release solenoid, but when I hit the release button, the hatch does not release itself from the latch and unless someone is back there lifting while I hit the button, the hatch will lock and the pull-down motor will tighten it down again. If I hold down the latch button until the pull-down motor has ascended completely, sometimes the hatch will release itself and I can lift it myself. Is this a common problem?
Also, the lock cylinder and the back cover plate are out of alignment, making it real hard for me to stick the key in and turn it without rubbing against the cover plate opening. Which part needs to be adjusted here?
These two issues combined makes using the hatch altogether a PITA.
He did. It is unlatching. The hatch hook is just being re-acquired by the latch as the pull-down motor raises. Once it reaches the top of the "up" cycle it will immediately travel down again because the striker-sensing switch is being pressed by the hatch hook. Common problem on Firebirds with the stock HEAVY solid urethane spoiler. Two solutions, one is more expensive. You can replace the original heavy spoiler with an aftermarket hollow fiberglass spoiler. Second solution is to adjust both the hatch (if out or alignment) and the pull-down motor up or down until you get it to release the hatch hook, yet not start the up-cycle.
My hatch does this and it has the lightweight spoiler, so I'm guessing it is because it is out of alignment.
I just remember to run outside really fast to catch it before it closes again.
Strong hatch struts and the fiberglass spoiler will allow the hatch to rise up sufficiently so the latch can't acquire the hatch hook on the up cycle.
Yes you can adjust it up a bit until you get it to unlach and not start the up cycle. Mine will sometimes start the up cycle, but will stall out before re-latching on the hatch hook.
Ahh got it, thanks Lon. I replaced the struts but they're not strong enough to actually lift the hatch, just keep it open. I'll have to go with the alignment option as I'm not ready to fork over $400 for a fiberglass spoiler. I guess I've got a weekend project now
