Glovebox Latch Screwed Up

Trying to get into the glovebox of my 1971 Cuda. The round knob just spins around and around that's mounted on the door of the glovebox, and the door won't release -- is there an easy way for me to get into the glovebox without ruining anything with monster strength?

Thanks,

Mark

Not sure you can without the possibility of damage.

From your description, likely the outer knob has broken free from the inner mechanism shaft. Is the Latch Keyed (lockable) or is it just a latch release knob?

Is this the Dash Glovebox or a Center Console Glovebox?

Is the inner glovebox cardboard or plastic? You could tunnel through from underneath, remove contents and release the latch, then repair or replace the inner box.

You might be able to pry the outer button off with two screwdrivers wraped in electric tape to not scratch the glovebox door.

You might be able to sneak a thin, flexible blade between the glovebox door to access the latch release.

Do you know what the latch mechanism in question looks like?

It isn't Fort Knox, but trying to force it may well damage something, but that might be the best you can do.

Worst case, a Locksmith?

Same thing that happened to my 73 Charger. I was able to open it by turning the outer part until I could pop it with the tip of the key.

The bigger problem is the replacement - to get the old one out the key needs to be moved to the lock position so you can get to the pins.

If you have to take it apart unlocked you have to force it apart which takes the retention ring off the rear mechanism. You will need to press the ring back on the mechanism to keep the new lock assembly from falling out.

You can easily pry the chrome knob off by sticking a flat blade screw driver in a very slight bit. Pry it to the side and it will pop off. You can then take the rest of the assembly off by removing the 2 screws on the back side.

What I could not get open was the dash board glove box. The chrome knob just spun, it would not open on anything. Yes, it is unlocked with a key -- and once I was able to line up the key to the slot, it opened right up. Is this how these are supposed to operate? I mean, you shut the door and it's locked all the time, only way to open the door is by using the key. Sound right?

Thanks for all the tips.

No the chrome knob should be crimped to the cylinder and that would make the knob operate the lock assembly. The key should only be needed to lock the door.

No the chrome knob should be crimped to the cylinder and that would make the knob operate the lock assembly. The key should only be needed to lock the door. Turn the key counter clockwise to lock the door turn the knob clockwise to open the door when unlocked.

O.K. I'll have to take it apart and check it out. Thanks for the heads up.