Date:         Wed, 9 Sep 1998 01:13:11 -0400
Reply-To:     Dan Burgos <dburgos@ACSU.BUFFALO.EDU>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <Vanagon@vanagon.com>
From:         Dan Burgos <dburgos@ACSU.BUFFALO.EDU>
Subject:      Re: Rear Lock
Comments: To: Carter <carters@thegrid.net>
Comments: cc: vanagon listserv <vanagon@vanagon.com>
In-Reply-To:  <008d01bddb85$8ffe8f80$550ca2d1@carters.thegrid.net>
Content-Type: TEXT/PLAIN; charset=US-ASCII

On Tue, 8 Sep 1998, Carter wrote:

> I used WD-40 and graphite to try getting mine to work better. Dumb move! My
> ultimate solution was to remove the lock mechanism (accessible from the
> bottom...those three Allen bolts...no need to remove inside hatch panel) and
> wash it thoroughly in hot water. This got the gunk and junk out. I ended up
> having to do this twice to get it all cleaned out. It has worked flawlessly
> since with no lubrication at all.

I'm gonna try the hot water treatment.  I was able to get the lock out
through the inside panel.  I've also discovered that these locks are
sealed...meaning they cannot be repaired if they break.  That also means
that if you buy a new lock, it cannot be keyed by a locksmith...so now
you'll have a 2-key vanagon.
RMMW has the lock for an '81 Vanagon for $64.95.
Does anyone know of a more reasonable place to get the lock?

Dan burgos
'81 westy
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