Boot Lock Problems

[Loubaruch]

My boot lock failed and on inspection the "Solenoid" had burnt out. Why it is referred to as a solenoid beats me as all door lock actuators I have seen comprise a small electric motor driving a rack through a couple of gears.

Replaced with the Maplin part and within a day it also failed, the motor being open circuit. Eventually traced the fault to the momentary action boot lock button sticking in the on position. Having recently replaced the dash with a SS engine turned one have concluded that the button clearance must be a bit tight.
Wondered about fitting a simple bowden cable as others have done but decided to keep original and solve the sticking problem with a bit of simple electronics. As I didnt fancy pulling the dash out again.
By placing a small timing circuit between the button and the boot motor, even if the button sticks the motor only receives the initial pulse and the button can remain stuck all day with no ill effect.

If anyone is interested I can post some details.

Edited by Loubaruch on Wednesday 11th June 23:49

[V8_GWA]

Being on about my fourth solinoid, I'd be interested in that!

I tried to find some sort of timed relay I could put in the ciruit next to the solinoid, but couldn't find anything simple enough for my limited knowledge to be able to fit.

Cheers,

Pete

[tvralfagtv6]

out of interest how do you open the boot once the actuator has failed? The absence of a mechanical lock is a bit worrying given these failures

[Simpo Two]

Solenoid!!!!