Where do I get a replacement tonneau release solenoid? The one on my pass side doesn’t work. A quick google search only pulls up used ones for sale. Does nobody repop them? Is there something else that can be used in its place?

 

With nothing to lose, I decided to try a universal door lock actuator and it seems to work fine. Not the prettiest mounting but it’s hidden behind a panel and cost $5 for a replacement if it fails so it’s worth a shot.

 

Probably no repros made.good substitute is the hatch solenoid on the non power f-bodies hatches.Virtually the same piece, but they seem to work much better though. Just need to rig a mounting method.
Where you get the universal piece?

 

the actuator was an extra I had around from a power lock install. I’ve used them on non power cars and as a replacement for expensive actuators on other car. I’ll get a pic later of the one I put in

but they are around $5 on eBay/ amazon

 

Thanks, is it larger than the original? Any stronger?

 

Not really much bigger a, just a different shape. It is 2 way, push and pull depending on polarity. Not sure on strength but I have used them to add power locks to non power doors and it will move all the linkage enough to work.
I did not mount in the original location due to size but with the cable it is easy to move it out of the way to mount. I used the original cable and cut the end off the actuator.
I had it laying in a drawer and the old actuator was toast so I have nothing to lose.
I saw a few used ones online for $75-100 each, so as long as this works for a while, I will be happy with it. My car is no show piece so it doesn’t have to be 100% correct

 

That looks like a great idea.

 

Well done edman. I've been wanting to crack open a solenoid and see whats going on inside.
The hatch solenoid is tons stronger and only one does the job of popping the hatch.Which is way heavier than the tonneau...go figure.

 

Why dosen't my 89 IROC Z Vert not have any tonneau release solenoids, nor a switch to activate them? (No hole in the console for the switch) When I bought the car, the seller showed me how to open the tonneau by pulling the release cables, one at a time.

 

Have you ever pulled the rear inside panels to see if the cables and solenoids are there?
I don’t think any verts were made without the solenoid setup. Maybe someone replaced the console panel with one from another model?

 

I have not. It hasn't arrived at the top of my "to do" list. I guess I will if I install a new top.

 

UPDATE When the PO changed the console, they eliminated the tonneau release switch! I installed a good used switch and now I hear the solenoids click when activated, but they do not release the tonneau. I lubed the latches with negative results. I will remove the trim panels, "When I get a round-tuit".

I also replace the clear housing and slides, on the deck lid pull down, it works fine. I installed new "Ultra Power 4632 deck lid lifts/struts , but they are not strong enough to raise the deck lid, off the pulldown mechanism. Thus it clicks repeatedly, till you raise the deck lid, enough for the struts to hold it up. I do NOT like that, it is IMO incorrect. I have Sachs struts arriving tomorrow.

EDIT EDIT I created a new thread regarding Vert DECK LID STRUT/SUPPORTS EDIT EDIT

Any input?

 

I have strong arm struts and they hold the trunk up enough for it not to close, but not enough to lift it up.

 

Those manual release cables are for emergency use when the solenoid release fails. As was recommended pull the side panels that contain the rear speakers and look for the tonneau release solenoids.

Lon

 

I removed the trim around the console,at the shifter and located the wires, for the latch release switch. I carefully cut a hole fora hatch release switch and installed a good, used switch. I removed the interior , rear left & right side panels and located the release solenoids. I cleaned their piston shafts and body, and mounting area with my Dremel power wire brush. I also lubed the cables and latch mechanism. This got the solenoids and tonneau latches working!



**************** I created a new thread regarding Vert DECK LID STRUT/SUPPORTS ************** https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/conv...ert-trunk.html