Trunk Lock Problem

[Gilly]

OK, looking at that image, it'd be more like the 3 or 4 o'clock position relative to the chrome button, then a rod (not wire, too weak, more like a brazing rod) is inserted into the hole, at such an angle it'll hit the lever on the latch that the lock would be pushing on. You're using this rod to do the job the lock cylinder would do. NORMALLY this would open it. Unless the latch itself is junk. If you need to knock out the lens, find out if one is cheaper, I don't think it matters as far as unscrewing the striker.
If you need to drill, I think you need to drill through the chrome piece and the body, but after you replace the chrome piece you won't see the hole. Be sure to drill slightly in towards the centerline of the car.
The lock is vacuum actuated, no wire. I'd be more inclined to mess with the KEY in this rear lock cylinder than any other approach to the problem. You could luck out. If it opens, remove the bolts that hold the striker in palce IMMEDIATLY before it accidentally gets closed again!

Gilly

[SteveStromberg]

Could it be the vacuum lineis broken Could I apply some Vacuum to it and maybe get it to release?

Where would I find a vacuum line diagram ? Thanks Steve

[Gilly]

Nope, the lock cylinder is doing the same thing the vacuum is, plus you say you can hear the servo operating (I thought you said that).
Vacuum diagram is in the trunk....Ha! Just kidding. Various sources, the MB manual on disc for example should have it, but again I don't think it'll help you
at this point.
Gilly

I had a similar issue on my 380. The trunk lock would not lock or unlock with the vacum control. To get it unlocked with the key was not impossible but I had to really persuade it. What I had found was the circlip that atched the actuator for them solinoid to the lock tumbler fell off. Just bumping the car would relock the trunk. Drove me knots till I really looked into it. I could unlock the tunk come back 10 minutes later and it would lock on it's own. After I replaced the missing circlip it functions perfect now

[SteveStromberg]

Thanks Randy and Pete for your info. I will see if I can get it open. When I do I an going to rig a release like thge posches have so this will never happen again. My wife like to drive the SL but I wont let her untill the trunk is fin . If she gets a flat AAA will not be able to change the tire. Thanks Steve

[SteveStromberg]

Well I have tried several different things but it is still locked.
Does anyone have a photo of the lock so I can see what I am dealing with?
Has anyone driiled out the lock Cylinder?
Thanks Steve

[Gilly]

Have you drilled the hole so you can push on the latch itself? This is the only good way to do this. Or bust out a tail light lense to unbolt the catch.......
Gilly