1998 STS Glove Box Latch Problem

[russwjohns]

Am unable to open the glove box (glove compartment). Doesn't matter which position I turn the key. Originally had an intermittent problem and I had to use a small screw driver to push the operating rod (lever) to get it open. Left it open and then an unknowing passenger closed it and I have been unable to get it open since.

Is there any special tools that can be used on the latch mechanism to open it?? All hinges are on the inside, so I can't simply drop the box.

Quite perplexing problem.

Thanks for any ideas

[ctesla]

Russ,
Welcome to AF.

if you cannot use the small screwdriver to get the box back open,
use a dremel, and cut the LATCH in half, pull it out and then needlenose to grab the push rod to open.
Cadillac dealer has "repair kit" usually for under $50, unless special color.

if that is too extreme,
call
Arapahoe Auto (cadillac only)
Englewood, CO
800-229-0875
or
303-781-0875

talk to Donnie Hunter owner/operator,
(they are also on carparts.com)
and let him know chris sent you.
he can probably FedEx you a replacement for less

hope this helps,
chris
nrt racing

[russwjohns]

Thanks Chris for a procedure I hadn't considered.

I'm not sure if your reference is to cutting the dash colored release latch which pivots upwards, the control rod itself, or the actual latch catch inside the box itself What I am calling the release latch is the part that is lifted just to the left of the key lock and has "fingers" which rotate a control rod. It is just that the control rod doesn't seem to operate the release latch mechanism internally which is located near the top center of the glove box lid.

If I knew what the interior latch mechanism looked like I could probably make some tool to unhook/release it. I'm thinking of going down to a local dealer who may have a similar model to see what I'm dealing with.

...russ

[russwjohns]

Originally Posted by russwjohns

If I knew what the interior latch mechanism looked like I could probably make some tool to unhook/release it. I'm thinking of going down to a local dealer who may have a similar model to see what I'm dealing with.
...russ

If anyone could take a couple of digital pics (from different angles) of the interior latch for this or a similar glovebox and email them to me, it would be a BIG help.

...russ