Hi all, just picked up a nice low mileage '85 Delta 88 and was wondering if anyone here could offer some advice on a problem with the trunk release. It pops but only with enough force to open the right side of the trunk. The left side stays closed and you end up needing the key. Any ideas on how to remedy this?

 

I believe in 1985 it was an electric solenoid that released it. There may be some adjustment that would allow the latch to move further. I would look for that, and maybe remove it from the trunk, clean and inspect the part that releases the latch. Another thing you might check is the spring rods for the trunk lid. Look up under the panel behind the windshield to see if anything looks bent or out of wack. Hopefully you'll find the problem with one of these steps. John

P.S. Welcome to the site!

 

Welcome Aboard. 85 Delta's are nice cars. You have the 2 door or 4 door?

^^^^ Yup. John got most of it. The other thing you might consider is the solenoid isn't pulling full power. It happens sometimes. Get a replacement from the wreckers and see if that makes a difference. The same solenoid is on the 80-85 Delta, Ninety Eight, Park Avenue, LeSabre and Bonneville IIRC. If you unlock the trunk by key, do the torsion rods lift the trunk enough to disengage the latching system?

 

Post pics of your 85 if you can!

 

It's a 4 door Brougham, 43K miles, zero rust, and just a few very small issues. Love the car so far. Regarding the torsion rod/key question; not sure I understand exactly what you are asking. If I open it using the key it opens no problem.

 

Will do asap!

 

Check the solenoid plunger to make sure it is pulling in all the way and not binding. On my 86 Cutlass, the plunger failed to move, as if the plastic sleeve inside expanded - no corrosion or rust at all. Kinda like how sprinkler head stems expand and they refuse to pop up all the way or go down.

 

Good luck with that trunk release issue-- not sure I understand how only one side of the trunk will open, but... does anyone have a trunk-release solenoid unit for a '72 Delta? And-- while I'm 'fishing'-- front and/or rear bumper guards for same?