1936 trunk handle lock - Need help
 

The trunk lock on my ‘36 will only turn 3/4 of a turn. I’ve never really cared about it locking as it’s always spent the night in the garage. I will be going to an overnight car show this coming weekend so I wanted to ensure I can lock it up. Any suggestions on how to get it the last 1/4 of a turn?

Re: 1936 trunk handle lock - Need help
 

If it worked before I would try putting some powdered graphite in there and work in the key back-and-forth a little bit. It may just be sticky.

Re: 1936 trunk handle lock - Need help
 

If you have removed the handle at one time, try removing and re-installing 180 degrees rotation to make sure the locking cam/slide bolt aligns with the slot in the lid when turning the key.

Re: 1936 trunk handle lock - Need help
 

I will try that. It does seem like it just hits a stop and doesn’t go any further. Up to that point, it turns quite freely.

Re: 1936 trunk handle lock - Need help
 

I had the same problem on the door of my daily driver. Squirted some wd-40 in it and it worked ok

Re: 1936 trunk handle lock - Need help
 

Handle should be vertical to be in stock position and will likely fix your problem.
See this thread:

https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/showthread.php?t=200452

Re: 1936 trunk handle lock - Need help
 

That was it, handle was in the wrong position. The handle now locks!

Thanks all; I can always count on the barn!

Re: 1936 trunk handle lock - Need help
 

Just a comment regarding the trunk handle. My 36 Ford 5W Coupe has the handle in the horizontal position and the lock works fine.

Re: 1936 trunk handle lock - Need help
 

So are you saying that they originally could have been factory installed either way or that your's has been modified?

Re: 1936 trunk handle lock - Need help
 

Horizontal from factory

Re: 1936 trunk handle lock - Need help
 

Take a look at ebay item #222706284087 factory photo. The handle on the rumble seat lid looks vertical. Not sure why Ford would install it horizontal on the trunk model. As it has to be opened from the side, horizontal is harder to turn.

Re: 1936 trunk handle lock - Need help
 

Steve,You might be right.I looked in the De Angelis book and they appear to be vertical. I stand corrected.

Re: 1936 trunk handle lock - Need help
 

So is it correct to be vertical on both the rumble and trunk models? Is that what we're saying now? This is different from what was stated in the link from post #6.

On my trunk lid, the cutout for the lock tang is facing left (when viewing the car from the rear). On my handle, the lock tang itself is facing up (or down) with the handle in the horizontal position. Therefore, to get the tang to engage in the lid the handle indeed needs to be vertical. Honestly speaking, I could see the handle being vertical on the rumble lid as opening from the side would be easier (in my opinion) with the handle vertical. However in trunk form, it seems it would be easier to open with the handle in horizontal position as you would be opening from the rear. Either way, I'm just glad I was able to get the trunk to now lock.

Re: 1936 trunk handle lock - Need help
 

I think it is vertical for both the rumble and trunk models. Take a close look at the attached photos from the Classy Ford V8 book. It looks like it is vertical on this trunk.

And for me, because of the location of the spare tire, it is difficult reach the handle from the back of the car, easier from the side, thus, vertical works best.

Re: 1936 trunk handle lock - Need help
 

Makes sense and indisputable photo evidence. I’m convinced.

Re: 1936 trunk handle lock - Need help
 

I need one with keys for my 36. Thank you

Re: 1936 trunk handle lock - Need help
 

I don't have an extra trunk handle. Best to find an original as the repros dont take the same key as the door and ignition.

And some of the guys on the list can rekey it to match what you have.