Trunk Latch Problem
 

Just recently bought a very nice 50 Ford Business Coupe - Been driving it around zero problems - Opened the trunk to get an extra set of rear side windows out, closed the trunk and now I can't get it open.

The release stayed in the up position and won't drop down. No matter what I do with the key and some gentle tapping, it won't drop down, so I can't open the trunk.

There is a hole centered over the latching mechanism, that is covered by the license plate, that appears to be there by Ford as an emergency way to open the trunk.

I tried pushing it in, gently prying up and down but nothing. I don't want to damage the very nice paint or damage the trunk.

Any help would be appreciated.

Re: Trunk Latch Problem
 

Not a 1950 expert, but you may have to remove the rear seat (bottom lifts up from the front-- rear is held in place by two bolts) and slide through into the trunk. Almost sounds like the latch mechanism is caught and seeing it from the inside of the trunk, you maybe able to knock it so that the caught piece will drop down and return to the proper position.

Hope this helps.

Re: Trunk Latch Problem
 

try pushing down on the lid and turning the key

Re: Trunk Latch Problem
 

Going though the back seat is the usual way to attack this problem but the fact that there is a factory hole in the trunk lid at the mechanism suggests that it is an access point to open it for emergency situations. But thanks for the input.

Re: Trunk Latch Problem
 

The key doesn't actually move the mechanism, it just allows it to happen. The release handle is the problem.

Re: Trunk Latch Problem
 

But thanks anyway for the input.

Re: Trunk Latch Problem
 

I don't think that hole is "factory". It's probably some previous owner's attempt (most likely, unsuccessful) to solve the problem you are currently experiencing.

Re: Trunk Latch Problem
 

It's factory, check them out online from junkyards and works in progress.

Re: Trunk Latch Problem
 

OK, I'll take your word for it.

Re: Trunk Latch Problem
 

My 49 coupe has that same hole. I just went out and looked and also tried a small pick through the hole but there is a panel behind it and will not allow it to move the latch.

Re: Trunk Latch Problem
 

When I get home from work, I’ll take some pics of the latch on my ‘50. It may show what your up against…… Mark

Re: Trunk Latch Problem
 

Since it is a new purchase, I would contact the previous owner to see if he has experienced the same problem and what the solution was.

Re: Trunk Latch Problem
 

There is no back seat - it is a business coupe. Removing the back panel will cause more problems that it will solve. Don't ask me how I know.

Pushing down on the trunk firmly as you try to activate the release handle is the best idea.

Ken

Re: Trunk Latch Problem
 

Lovely coupe and I've always found that particular steering wheel horn ring combo very pleasing on the eye.

GB

Re: Trunk Latch Problem
 

https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/attac...p;d=1625077797
That is one sweet 1950 Ford Business Coupe.

Re: Trunk Latch Problem
 

The Ford repair manual has a good illustration of the trunk handle mechanism, maybe that will be on line somewhere.

Re: Trunk Latch Problem
 

Sorry it so long to get the pics. I work a lot of hours......I’m old....and I forget things. I hope these help you .........Mark