1938 LaSalle Conv rumble seat

[Lukiepal]

Hello, I am a new owner of my 1938 Lasalle Conv, my rumble seat will not open, I unlock and turn handle but stays latched shut, I can't hear anything moving except the handle itself, how do I gain access to that area to see why latches aren't releasing?

[harry s]

Paul, Congratulations on your acquisition. It sounds like the handle is turning on the stem. I'm not that familiar with your  car but you can try taking the seat out and see if you can gain access that way. Hopefully others can chime in.
Harry

[Lukiepal]

Thank you Harry, that is what I think is happening also, I opened the trunk area and can not gain access from there, the wall behind the seats looks to be solid, I am wondering about pulling the convertible top off from the back somehow, just not sure

[Bob Hoffmann CLC#96]

Don't even think about touching the top. As Harry suggested, pull the seat & take a good luck at the bulkhead. You may?? have to cut a hole in it. There's no other way to access the latch.
Good Luck, Bob

[harry s]

When you remove the seat you may find the backing it attaches to is wood. This would be lucky as you could cut and replace. Barring that another last last resort is to drill and sacrifice the handle. This would also require patience and precision. Good Luck,     Harry

[Lukiepal]

Wow ok thanks for the advise, seats won't have to be removed, just fold forward, Back wall feels like steel, but I will soon check. Good thing no one was playing in the car and closed the seat to hide...