Hi all, I'm trying to fix the power deck release on my 92 Formula. The pulldown part works just fine. It's the release portion that I'm having trouble with. Do 91-92's even have a release solenoid, or do they use some sort of a mechanical linkage to release the deck? Mine has the release button. When I push it, the deck motor raises the lid, but it doesn't release. Further examination of the motor unit led me to discover there is no solenoid, (as my 87 IROC had) but there was a little plastic arm and spring that had come off and fallen to the bottom of the panel. I can't for the life of me figure out where this part goes. If there is supposed to be a soleniod, there isn't a place for it to plug in. If anyone has some Helms manual pics they could email, I'd appreciate it. Thanks for the help in advance!

 

I have a '91 RS and it has a solenoid that releases the latch. It appears to be a totally separate entity from the motor pulldown mechanism (although it is attached to it with one bolt).

If you goto this post https://www.thirdgen.org/techbb2/sho...hatch+pulldown

and scroll down to the nice photo by 89FirebirdUK you can see the solenoid in the large circled area. (Mine is not exactly identical but is very close.)

Is this what you are missing?

 

GM changed the design in mid 91, the 91.5 and 92's go up then release. They don't have a seperate solenoid either. I've never torn down the later style latch so I don't know how to fix it. You'll have to find someone that knows the new style. Chances are you'll have to replace the whole thing.

 

I have a 91.5 - 92 type for sale...

PM or e-mail me for details

John

 

I know what you are talking about but I'm not sure how to describe it or what to do about it. This piece is broken on mine as well. I think it is a spring loaded arm that activates the release, when the hatch reaches the top it takes the pressure off of this arm which releases the latch. I'm not for sure though I will take a closer look at it tonight, maybe we can come up with a way to fix it. I don't want to replace the whole motor just because of some little plastic piece too much $$$

 

Yeah, I don't want to have to replace the whole thing if I can fix that arm. I don't even know where the little arm and spring is supposed to go! It doesnt appear broken though, just looks like it fell off. Got any pictures or anything? Let me know what you find out

 

Ditto here. I think it's because everyone tries to slam the crap out of the hatch (valet, tire shop guys, car wash guys etc.)

 

cg91ta,

 

Whoa .... that last photo is totally different than what is in my '91 RS. Is this newest style more reliable than the older style?