Hatch release problem '87 S4
#1
Instructor
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Join Date: May 2013
Location: Austin, TX!
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Hatch release problem '87 S4
Friends,
My hatch release catch liner has disintegrated like the rest so I replaced it today. I vacuumed out the bit of the old one and popped in the new one, fit well. Got it from Roger.
I tried to use the hatch release button and had the tool kit panel off so I could see it function. It did not open the hatch, though I did watch the arm go up and down. It looks like, as far as adjustment goes, the two 10mm bolts have the system adjusted all the way down. I loosened them and attempted to see if it would adjust upward with it would not budge with a little force. As well I also noticed a plastic plug coming off of the harness right at the hatch release motor that was not plugged into anything and I couldn't find an empty receptacle for it. Any answers here.
So two things:
How do I go about adjusting the hatch release?
What's up with the plug coming off of the harness? (three brown wires)?
My hatch release catch liner has disintegrated like the rest so I replaced it today. I vacuumed out the bit of the old one and popped in the new one, fit well. Got it from Roger.
I tried to use the hatch release button and had the tool kit panel off so I could see it function. It did not open the hatch, though I did watch the arm go up and down. It looks like, as far as adjustment goes, the two 10mm bolts have the system adjusted all the way down. I loosened them and attempted to see if it would adjust upward with it would not budge with a little force. As well I also noticed a plastic plug coming off of the harness right at the hatch release motor that was not plugged into anything and I couldn't find an empty receptacle for it. Any answers here.
So two things:
How do I go about adjusting the hatch release?
What's up with the plug coming off of the harness? (three brown wires)?
#2
Nordschleife Master
I'd apply some white lithium grease to the insides of the plastic liner.
The two cap screw bolts allow the latch to be moved around and not up/down. Try loosening them and seeing if a slight reposition will help. if the first idea doesn't work.
The two cap screw bolts allow the latch to be moved around and not up/down. Try loosening them and seeing if a slight reposition will help. if the first idea doesn't work.
#3
Nordschleife Master
Try the re-positioning mentioned above first. I used the zip tie fix that is in the link below. Worked like a charm. They have been in there for four years. My hatch release never fails. (I know I shouldn't have said that)
https://rennlist.com/forums/4337016-post14.html
https://rennlist.com/forums/4337016-post14.html
#4
Team Owner
and easier try would be to loosen the two bolts that hold the male portion,
then take a zip tie and slide it under the rear edge of the male housing,
then tighten the bolts and test it ,
if no joy then use the link to Alans suggestion.
then take a zip tie and slide it under the rear edge of the male housing,
then tighten the bolts and test it ,
if no joy then use the link to Alans suggestion.
#5
Rennlist Member
Make sure the mechanism is adjusted correctly or it won't release. Open the hatch and raise the lid. Loosen the two bolts that secure the release motor mechanism and slide the motor up as far as possible in the adjustment slots and tighten the bolts. Close the hatch so it latches securely. From inside the hatch area loosen the two securing bolts you just tightened and gently slide the release motor mechanism down until you just feel the unlocking cam in the release mechanism resting against the latch piece in the upper part of the hatch latch. It is easy to force the unlocking cam past the latch piece so only bring the mechanism down far enough to feel a very slight resistance. Tighten the bolts and try the electric release. If it won't unlatch try and adjust the release mechanism down just a touch more. If it won't unlatch regardless of position you will most likely have to apply the zip ties to the unlatching cam as shown in the link or replace the plastic latch piece in the upper part of the latch (the part attached to the hatch.)
Mike
Mike
#6
You can call me Otis
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I think that white connector is for the alarm switch.
as to the hatch not opening, I also replaced the reciever liner, and my hatch will unlock when I pull the release but will not pop up on its own, but when I shut the door (with windows up and roof closed) the air pressure will pop the hatch up.
The "male" part of the latch on the hatch is cracked on one side, which causes just eneough friction to hold it tight against the receiver.
as to the hatch not opening, I also replaced the reciever liner, and my hatch will unlock when I pull the release but will not pop up on its own, but when I shut the door (with windows up and roof closed) the air pressure will pop the hatch up.
The "male" part of the latch on the hatch is cracked on one side, which causes just eneough friction to hold it tight against the receiver.
#7
Rennlist Member
Rennlist Site Sponsor
The connector is for the interior lights and alarm. With it disconnected, the interior lights won't come on when the hatch is opened.
Brown is ground, brown/white stripe is switched ground for interior lights.
Brown is ground, brown/white stripe is switched ground for interior lights.
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#8
This is good info and pics in this post. I added pics on page 3 of my zip tie and lever connecting rod pivot fix.
https://rennlist.com/forums/928-foru...h-release.html
https://rennlist.com/forums/928-foru...h-release.html