11e seat lock malfunction

[Rob S.]

I finally have a problem with my beautiful '82 11e.

I can't remove the seat. This is the infamous '3-hand' design, with the key in the rear and two side latches. The lock is not releasing the rear latch. I hear and feel very little when the key is turned 90 degrees to the right.

Should an extra pair of hands fail to make a difference, all I can think to do is take a drill to the keyhole.

Any suggestions, experience in this area?

[Guest]

Try a thin lubricant on the latches and a bit in the key hole. Hope you'll get it going

[Rob S.]

WD-40, you think? Right in the keyhole?

[Guest]

Powdered graphite.

[Guest]

If it still gives you issues, try something Teflon based or PB Blaster.

[rapidray]

Get your wife or a friend to work the 2 latches, push DOWN on the very rear of the seat while turning the key to unlock. After you get the seat off, remove those 2 latch assemblies underneath & throw them in a trash can!!!!
Ray.

[Rob S.]

I'll certainly try that. Thanks.

[Rob S.]

Get your wife or a friend to work the 2 latches, push DOWN on the very rear of the seat while turning the key to unlock. After you get the seat off, remove those 2 latch assemblies underneath & throw them in a trash can!!!!
Ray.

Well after quite a bit of drilling, rear lock is still latched. Any tips?