T350 bonnet cable

[Toobin]

My bonnet cable has stopped working. My local dealer has ordered me one at the cost of £16 something but want an hours labour £75 +VAT to fit it. Is it me or this rather extortionate....can I do this myself? if so has anyone done it and does anyone have any pointers?

[Targarama]

Most probably just loose at the bonnet end and needs retightening (bit like a bike brake cable). If you're careful you can persuade the bonnet to open through the gap. Any AA man worth his salt will be able to do this in 2 mins (this applies to 95% of all cars btw so no secret really).

I had a mk1 Ford Escort as my first car. Bonnet release cable broke. I used a large screwdriver to open the bonnet for about 2 years - tap in the right place and 'ping' it opened.

[tobeee]

To open mine I reach through the bonnet opening near the catch and pull the cable. That's what I was shown when I bought the car, so I'm not even sure there's a bonnet lever inside the car! If there is, and you've been using it previously, try my method!

[Paxo1]

May be worth a check...Look under the steering column in front of the catch for the bonnet. The cable is a friction fit in a (typical!)cheap clip..it can slip in here and then not get enough movement to open the bonnet catch. Pulling it back into position and nipping up the clip may help.Alternatively hold the cable while pulling the catch.

[rolex]

Take it to a specialist rather then a TVR dealer. You will probably save twenty pounds or more on the labour rate.

[Toobin]

Paxo1 said:

May be worth a check...Look under the steering column in front of the catch for the bonnet. The cable is a friction fit in a (typical!)cheap clip..it can slip in here and then not get enough movement to open the bonnet catch. Pulling it back into position and nipping up the clip may help.Alternatively hold the cable while pulling the catch.

Think I will explore this avenue first. I can get into the bonnet with a long screw driver which is a dam sight cheaper than £75+VAT + £16

Will keep you all posted on the next epic "tales from the bonnet"

Edited by Toobin on Wednesday 17th October 22:03