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MG MGB Technical - Bonnet closed and release cable broken

On a 1968 MGBGT, the bonnet is closed down and the release cable has become disconnected. Anyone know a means for releasing the bonnet from the outside? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciatted. Thanks.
John Norris

John,

I should start by saying that I have never had to do this.

However, you should be able to poke a long screw driver or thin bar between the grill slats and reach the release lever that the cable attaches to. You should then be able to put enough pressure on the lever to operate it. Getting an assistant to push the bonnet down at the same time may reduce pressure needed. You are likely to end up using the slats of the grill as a pivot point so some damage may arise. This will require straightening afterwards.
DAvid Witham

John - To expand on David's suggestion, if youcan fashion a hook at the end of soem seldig rod (1/8" to 3/32"), you should be able to go from the driver's side of the grill and hook the release lever and get the bonnet open. Whatever method, once the bonnet is open and before even thinking of closing it again, run a piece of cable from the opening lever over to the driver's side fneder, routing it through the grommet that the wiring for the headlights goes through and then make a loop that hangs just outside the grommet. This way, if the normal bonnet opening cable fails, you can pull on the just installed cable by reaching under the fender and get your bonnet open. Good luck - Dave
David DuBois

It won't help you this time, but a while ago I saw advice about fitting a cable tie to the relase lever so that you could grasp it with pliers and pull if the need arose. I fitted one right away, but haven't had to use it - yet !
Miles Banister

Miles, I will be putting a cable tie on tonight.
S Best

Or if you want one already made, look here http://www.shadetreemg.com/gem.htm
gerry masterman

Everyone:

This site is great. I've been living in fear of just this sort of problem. I now have preventive ideas to solve the problem and I didn't have to tax my gray matter. Thanks.

Jack
J.C. Weidner

This thread was discussed between 16/05/2005 and 17/05/2005

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