Elan +2, accessing the boot release cable

[ipro]

Hi Everyone,

I recently acquired a 1971 Elan +2 and need to reattach the boot release cable handle which has loosened from where it is seated inside the door frame on the driver's side (left hand drive car). There is an access panel on the inside of the left rear wheel well but the screws holding it on just spun when I tried to remove it. Before I do something more to gain access, is this the best way? Any advice very welcomed!

The loose handle (appears that the securing nut within the body cavity has simply come undone):

[ipro]

Sorry previous image posted 90 degrees off vertical.

This is the access panel I am referring to at the front of the left rear wheel well.

[alanr]

You will need to remove the access panel to get to the nut on the reverse side of cable release knob which looks as if it has come unscrewed. It is the only way to access the nut.
The access panel screws are merely self tappers that screw into the car body so if they spin perhaps you can get something on them to pull at the same time as screwing, pliers, pincers, or a small flat head screwdrive to lever at the same time etc and then they should come out and enable you to remove the access panel.

Alan.

[Steve Brooks]

Hi, on my +2 to remove the access panel (sill closing plates) my screws go through the body and fix on flat nuts.This means loosening the rear interior rear quarter panel and moving it to the side after removing the parcel shelf and lifting out the rear seat back.Regards Steve

[Gordon Sauer]

Looking at it, it seems to me like you just might be able to secure the housing of the cable and pull out on the handle, it might take a couple people, but if you can just secure the outer sleeve of the release, you should be able to pull on the t handle, and pull it the toward you releasing the hood, Gordon

[ipro]

Thank you, Alan, Steve, and Gordon!

I will attempt to remove the screws from the access panel with a magnet or needle nose pliers or similar. I presume I will need to fill the holes with resin in order to securely refit the screws.

I appreciate your advice.

[alan.barker]

While the panel is removed look at the condition of the Sill Member inside the Sill, Seat Belts fit to it so if rusty needs replacing
Alan

[ipro]

Good call. My car’s sills were replaced at the time as it was given a new chassis. But, will definitely poke around to assess the current state.

[alan.barker]

Also make sure the panel is sealed with silicon or something so water is not forced behind when you drive in the rain lol
Alan

[elan66]

Rivnuts would probably work