I suspect I already know what I’m in for. 1977 Series 2 XJC. The release on my boot lock is compromised. The handle turns through more than 180 degrees and doesn’t release. Is there a quick way to get to the latch? The license plate is mounted with nuts and bolts, so I’m looking at drilling them out to remove it. Then ?

 

try to remove the license plate screws without drilling first.

then you can try to grab the latch rod through one of the holes and pull it up.

 

I've been successful getting bolts with blind nuts out by gripping them with small vice grips and pull out while unscrewing. If you can put enough pull on the bolt the friction will hold the nut while you unscrew it.

Jeff

 

I agree with Jeff.

I made a tool using a fork for that purpose.
cut one of the inner legs off of the fork and leave the other 3.
slide the fork behind the plate until you stop with the screw.
then turn the screw as you push the plate outwards with the fork's handle to prevent the nut from moving.
Eventually the fork will slide into the screw where the leg was removed giving you full leverage..

the curvature of the fork and the handle are perfect to remove screws that way.

 

Jose:

No ladies in your household to make angry by mangling the silver ware???

Carl

 

Carl,
it was a cheapo fork I also use to pull.out door panels. but it is made of stainless steel so it has not broken yet.

 

I finally got motivated to break in to the boot. Got the number plate off no issue .
I could see the actuator came off the back of the lock cylinder through one of the screw holes, but with the first attempt to grab it, it of course fell away.
SO, enlarge a plate screw hole to try to go after it? I assume there's no way into the trunk through the rear seat bolster.

 

Well damn me if I didn't get it open.
The plate fastener slots are just big enough that a spring claw grabber slides in; found the lift wire and was able to yank it loose with a thin wire nose plier.
Great thing about old cars; you can fix it yourself.

Procured a replacement circlip.
Shall pour a Tanqueray and tonic, proceed to reassembly at my leisure

 

"Tank and tonic"

Some people really know how to live

Cheers
DD

 

One must keep up one’s standards, especially in such times as these, yes?
We cannot let society be brought low.
I shall raise a glass to you, sir.
And enjoy the ride.

 

Congratulations on a battle well won!
(';')

 

More like a small skirmish in the war, right?