1800: Tailgate Lock..How does it lock?

[Sullen Leonard]

My first ever post so be gentle.. I had owned a 131 for nine years using it as an every day car and over the years gleaned information from these forums without needing to post..but since changing to an 1800es I am a novice again and since its a bit rarer I have a few queries..

Firstly I cant work out how the tailgate lock actually locks.. Is the barrel part supposed to stick out like on the doors (mine doesnt) I notice the key kind of slots into the handle part or maybe I dont actually have the correct key?

Many thanks in advance..

[Ron Kwas]

SL;

Welcome to Forum!

Rules for (continued) ES Tailgate fun:
1. NEVER SLAM IT CLOSED!
2. NEVER SLAM IT CLOSED WHEN KEY IS IN THE LOCK POSITION!
3. Review Rules 1&2!

This is strictly a manual operation...to unlock ("wings" in lock assembly are horizontal), insert key (it does slide into the grooves in the "wings" on either side) turn key, supported by "wings" to unlock ("wings" are vertical when unlocked). Lift and open tailgate...to close and lock, close tailgate gently, turn key to horizontal, remove key.

If you are able to turn insert and turn key, it is the correct, matching key. (Somewhat obviously), you must have the correct, matching key before attempting to lock/unlock. Once open...observe action of inside latch piece as you turn the key... I seem to recall there is a known weakness of the latch...(from memory) something about a piece in the latch ratcheting mechanism (item 37 of attached image) being vulnerable to breakage...I'll see if I can work out details, but that should get you started.

http://stage.catalogue.gcp.cust.blue..._8_page_21.gif Source: GCP's site.

Cheers from Connecticut!

[Sullen Leonard]

Thanks for the quick response..
My tailgate lock opens and shuts irrespective of whether the key is in it or not, which Im guessing suggests there is something wrong with the ratchet mechanism you mentioned?..

[cassell]

Hi,

If you can turn the lock and open the tailgate without the key being inserted it's likely that the small brass spring-loaded 'tumbler' lugs in the barrel are worn or broken. In normal operation without the key in place these protrude from the sides of the barrel to prevent it turning. When you insert the key it lines the tumblers up flush with the barrel so that it can turn with the winged knob.

Replacement barrels are available from Brookhouse Classic Volvo Parts but you have to buy a complete car lock set as the tailgate one isn't available separately.

The lock components are very fiddly and can be brittle so be careful as you dismantle it and take care not to lose the small coiled spring which works the locking lever!!

Good luck,

Paul

[Sullen Leonard]

Thanks for that information, Paul..
Looks like I will be on the phone to Brookhouse shortly..
Beginning to think that on the 1800es the "es" part stands for extra spending..