Installing electronic release hood or trunk releases in you classic Mopar

Late 80's New Yorkers, 5th Aves, Diplomats and such came with electronic trunk releases. Turns out, for most classic mopars these are direct bolt ins, and in most cases the stock key setup can still be used. Usually minor trimming or spacing is required, but no cutting of your Mopar is needed.

Wiring:

Wiring of one of these is very simple. The case of the trunk release is the latches ground. Then there is only one wire that requires 12volts to pop the latch. Thats really it, I chose to wire mine off relays for a consistant/confident pop of the latch. Also if you have a alarm, most times there are provisions for trunk releases, remote starts, etc. these can be used to pop the latches.

Mounting:

For use as a trunk latch, usually there will be some trimming required of the latch. If you look at the pictures with the latch off the car, and mounted in the trunk. You will see what is necessary. Most mopars with the key cylinder located in the center of the trunk will still be able to use the stock key setup to be able to pop it via key, or button. A Ebody cuda however, will require some fabrication work to keep the stock key working. Your factory bolts will work just the same and it has a adjustable height.

For use as a hood latch, minor trimming is required for some cars. Some it is a bolt in. I haven't tried it on many cars, but my e-body cuda and a-body duster will require a little trimming and spacing like in the picture above. Such as a challenger will be a direct bolt in. The stock release cannot be used, unless you fabricate it to do so. Usually in a power outage incident a small screwdriver and be brought around to the latch from under the grille and it can be popped that way.

 

These are very easy to install, work great, and add a little cool factor to your mopar without cutting it and little $$. My yard sells these for $5.50 ea with tax.