Has anyone installed any kind of electric power trunk release in a 66 full size? Originally they were vacuum but those are next to impossible to find (or not affordable when they are for sale) so I'd like to see if I can find an electric option.
__________________
1966 Strato Chief 2 door, 427 4 speed, 45,000 original miles
1966 Grande Parisienne, 396 1 of 23 factory air cars
It was quite the challenge since the latch mechanism won't rotate without the key in. So I built a sleeve and coupler that allows the pwr lock to rotate separately.
First chance I get, I will post some pics of how I did it.
Here's a pic of the hoaky device I built. Basically, the original rod had to be cut to add an outer sleeve with a 90 degree slot that allows the actuator to rotate the latch without turning the rod at the key lock. The key turns both. The actuator is positioned at the top right, pulls the cable to release and has a return spring to retract. It's hoaky, but hidden and works well. Even have a remote fob for both door locks and trunk.
Here's a pic of the hoaky device I built. Basically, the original rod had to be cut to add an outer sleeve with a 90 degree slot that allows the actuator to rotate the latch without turning the rod at the key lock. The key turns both. The actuator is positioned at the top right, pulls the cable to release and has a return spring to retract. It's hoaky, but hidden and works well. Even have a remote fob for both door locks and trunk.
Perfect Steve, thanks! I will admit I had to study the picture for about 5 minutes but it completely makes sense now.
__________________
1966 Strato Chief 2 door, 427 4 speed, 45,000 original miles
1966 Grande Parisienne, 396 1 of 23 factory air cars
Perfect Steve, thanks! I will admit I had to study the picture for about 5 minutes but it completely makes sense now.
Actually built it as a sort of prototype about 15 years ago but didn't expect it to last. Planned on perfecting it.... one day.....
That old lesson. When working on a car, there is no such thing as "I'll just do it this way for now" or "this is just temporary". Until it doesn't work any more, it will stay that way!
__________________
1966 Strato Chief 2 door, 427 4 speed, 45,000 original miles
1966 Grande Parisienne, 396 1 of 23 factory air cars
