Just ran into another problem last night. I tried to release the bonnet so I can gain access to the engine, I pulled the lever inside the car, the bonnet released (can see hear the sound). But when I got to the front I can't get to the catch mechanism. Is there another way to open the bonnet?

 

Inside hood release .... OMG

I don't even have hinges!

Sounds like you need to go hunting...the cable is binding somewhere.

But don't feel messed with. I spent 2 hours last nite trying to find out why the wire stopped feeding in a MIG welder....same problem....and I finally finished the job on the Camaro....

 

There is a way. Take off the inner fender liner from the Right side front, and you can reach in and release the latch. I have seen the cable slip off the bracket. Not as hard as it sounds. Jack the car up and support securely, take the wheel off.

 

Funny thing, this can happen on the new ones too.

And you need to get the wheel off for that fix too...

GL with that, I now know what to do should I have this issue.

 

This is a classic Mini? I don't have fender liners. The easy way is to remove the grille and you can get to the latch.

 

Sorry, I was reading new posts and did not check what forum I was in. Good luck, sounds easier than on a New MINI.

And, I was wrong there too. If you can't tell what side is not releasing, both inner finders have to be removed.

Back to you BJ.

 

I've no quick fix for this. My 79 has a glass front end. No inside release...no hinges. Pull 2 pin and release 2 rubber straps and the bonnet comes off. 4 more rubbers. 6 screws, 2 banjos and one electric multi point and the entire front clip comes off

 

If you can hear it release, then the cable is still hooked up. While you are pulling the release inside the car, have some one play with the hood, They may be able to get it off of the catch. I have had that problem with several cars. The hood is just "stuck" so it does not pop up off of the latch with spring pressure alone.
John

 

I resolved the issue. I took off the front grill and was able to release the bonnet. The latch/spring was off center so I bent it back to center it up and now it works great. Thanks everyone for your help.