1940 Ford Trunk Handle

wspiker

wspiker

Senior Member
Currently, I have to use the trunk latch key each time I open the trunk on my '40 Ford. How can I fix my trunk handle to remain unlocked and than lock it with the key when needed?

Thanks,

Daryl
 
They are all like that. I have an origianl handle and it must be locked to remove the key.
 
Grind the head of a spare key small enough that the spring loaded cover will fit over it. Leave it unlocked until you need to secure it.
 
Thanks 40cpe. I had a '47 Tudor with an original handle and I was able to keep it locked or unlocked. I bought a new chromed one and it was such that you needed to use a key each time to open the truck. I guess I should have switched the key lock?
 
I don't know about the '47, but I've never heard of anyone being able to remove the key from a '40 with the key cylinder in unlocked position.
 
I can modify your lock cylinder to allow removal of the key in the open position. Only requirement is that you have a working key and that the cylinder is a "Hurd" manufactured OEM cylinder (it would be chrome or nickle plated rather than the Briggs and Stratton stainless clad design). If you are interested in the modification, give me a call.
John at 919-559-5774
 
I don't know about the '40 but I can remove the key from our '39 CS trunk latch and it will remain unlocked, the same thing on our '47 Ford however, on the '39 LZ you have to lock the trunk to remove the key... Another Ford anomaly...:confused::eek:
 
I just did this modification to my '40 this past summer to make it easier to get the folding chairs in an out of the trunk. I did not document the procedure at the time, but it was very easy and straight forward. Take out the lock and look at it and how it works. There is a little tab somewhere that you can grind off and the trunk opens and closes without the key. You shouldn't have any problems.

Hugh
 
Hugh in NC said:
I just did this modification to my '40 this past summer to make it easier to get the folding chairs in an out of the trunk. I did not document the procedure at the time, but it was very easy and straight forward. Take out the lock and look at it and how it works. There is a little tab somewhere that you can grind off and the trunk opens and closes without the key. You shouldn't have any problems.

Hugh
Click to expand...

Except to lock it! Love that avatar.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top