However, I think this can be improved upon and made to look factory fit by using a bonnet release handle mounted to the plastic panel just below the seat belt mount in the photo below. I think making a reinforcing plate to sit behind the panel should be strong enough, given this shouldn't be in regular use.
For the handle I think the D3 (and D4?) bonnet release handle would work, plus there are plenty on ebay for about £15. However, I just need to get my head around getting the correct ends on the cable and sourcing a long (2.5m+) inner and outer bike cable.
Any thoughts or suggestions are to where I might find a cable. Ideally I would like one with both ends terminated so I don't have to cut/join/bodge and end on.
Regards,
Steve
29th May 2020 11:57 am
ianm27
Member Since: 02 Jun 2016
Location: Hertfordshire
Posts: 2154
Sorry Steve but that carpet looks way too clean to be a D4 Uncle Ray's spare wheel protector
Limo Tint
Blackvue front & rear dashcam
Cruise control switch pack
Bodsy's remote for FBH
Never had to change the actuator only the cables, my mate used to sell the reinforced cables, that had a stainless steel end welded on to them, I have one on mine, its been on for 12 years and my tailgate gets some hammer..
Not sure where to source them now though.
Flack
29th May 2020 1:24 pm
Famousfive
Member Since: 12 Aug 2014
Location: Southampton
Posts: 1809
My D4 actuator feels on way out and was going to do something with a bike cable loop for emergencies.
Cable looks ok- can you just change that Flack?
I’ve ordered a fiesta boot solenoid to replace my d4 to see if that’s the cause Stolen - D4 Loire Blue
D4 Bali Blue
29th May 2020 3:45 pm
ianm27
Member Since: 02 Jun 2016
Location: Hertfordshire
Posts: 2154
The actuator on my D4 gave up week before last. I could hear it whirring but didn't have enough power to operate the cable.
The unit was replaced in about 20 minutes.
The old unit's piston was very stiff to push back into the housing - on the new one the piston moved very easily.Uncle Ray's spare wheel protector
Limo Tint
Blackvue front & rear dashcam
Cruise control switch pack
Bodsy's remote for FBH
29th May 2020 5:03 pm
Motolab
Member Since: 18 Oct 2019
Location: Sleen
Posts: 1815
Flack wrote:
, my mate used to sell the reinforced cables, that had a stainless steel end welded on to them, Not sure where to source them now though.
I am looking for one, have seen them here before incl a link...am looking for a week now on the forum, but still haven’t found it again...
As i have converted my D3 to a commercial, with a full enclosed panel, permanently mounted.
The inside Of the rear door is inaccessible Incase of a cable defect...
So if someone knows this welded alternative For sale somewhere..... i am very interested in one..
I don’t fancy DIY solution in this case.. wantca rugged one
Follow this thread with interest...Best regards
Harold
Always looking for Pre '55's & Pre war British Motorcycles! knowing or having one for sale? PM please. I visit the UK 6 times a year
Ps. I edit my texts quite often, english is not my native language, so I will edit My “typo’s” etc.
Assuming it's a D3 or D4 cable? Is it long enough to reach that far?
Regards,
Steve
30th May 2020 7:51 am
capt_slow
Member Since: 18 Jun 2020
Location: Michigan
Posts: 4
For what it's worth, if you don't have drawers/etc in the boot, I just tucked an emergency release cable through the tailgate trim. Been meaning to 3d print a little handle or something for it, but it doesn't look that out of place. Lot less effort than running the cable to the 2nd row.
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but that carpet looks way too clean to be a D4 
