16 replies to this topic

[ScottieDoo]

Hi all.

 

This may not be a technical problem, but rather just the way things are.

 

Does the key for the boot release from the lock after the boot is unlocked? Or is the lock designed that the key has to stay in the lock, until it's turned back to the lock position?

[purple_fly06]

I cant speak for every boot lock, but on mine I'm able to remove it.

[Quinlan minor]

I cant speak for every boot lock, but on mine I'm able to remove it.

Same for me.

[4130]

My key stays stuck in the lock unless I turn the latch to the locked position. I've always wondered why when I see other owners that can remove theirs.

[Ethel]

https://www.minispar...0/BARRELSET.jpg

 

 

That's the boot lock in the middle.  The "levers" poke out the slots in the side to engage in grooves in the handle.  Putting the key in pulls all the levers inside the barrel so it can be turned, allowing that offset protrusion on the bottom to  move the bar that blocks the handle from turning.  The levers can poke out both sides, so if you insert the wrong key it will either not pull the lever in far enough or pull it too much so it sticks in to the groove on the opposite side. The upshot is you should be able to get the key out in either of two positions, 180 degrees apart. One where the handle won't turn & one where it will.

[ScottieDoo]

Really helpful, thanks for the replies! So there’s a chance I’m using the wrong key. The joys of having endless keys for the endless locks.

Thanks again.

[Ethel]

There shouldn't be if you can unlock it, but it's a Mini & a spoon would probably do that!

 

If it matters, start by seeing if the key turns the full 180 degrees. Don't snap the key though!

[stuart bowes]

we used to have a landrover where I could open the locks with a 5p lol

[DeadSquare]

In times of olde, when Minis were plentiful, I had a "Mr Bean" car, with a padlock on the door.

 

Actually, it was a "Trompe l'oeil", with the whole gubbins only on the door, which made it simple gaining access, but it looked good.

 

I had to super glue the padlock in position to stop it clattering at anything over 30MPH.

[ScottieDoo]

There shouldn't be if you can unlock it, but it's a Mini & a spoon would probably do that!

 

If it matters, start by seeing if the key turns the full 180 degrees. Don't snap the key though!

I get a 90 degree turn. Tested the other keys and none fit or turn.

[Ethel]

That'll be why then. If the levers (must be a better term 'because they aren't, but anyway) have nowhere to go they'll stop you from pulling the key out.

 

I'm almost wondering if it's a different sort of lock. It is a job you can bring indoors and not too difficult. There's a "secret" pin to remove to get the handle stripped and you need the key inserted. There are some topics, this un has some good piccies https://www.theminif...-the-boot-lock/

[Steam]

The correct term for the levers is tumblers.

[Bobbins]

When I bought my ‘98 Mini it was the same, ie. unable to remove the key with the boot unlocked. I don’t recall this being the case with previous Minis I’d owned and to be honest, although a good security feature I found it a complete pita.

I replaced various parts due to corrosion, including all the lock barrels and recall I did something to the boot lock to enable the key to be removed when unlocked … unfortunately I can’t recall what I did but it’s definitely possible! Being able to leave the boot unlocked when I want to is much better.

[Designer]

I had the same problem. Squirted some graphite powder into the lock - problem solved.

[Ethel]

The correct term for the levers is tumblers.

But they don't...nevermind