R56 Rear hatch open with no power

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Oct 7, 2018 | 06:58 PM

samstoney

Thread Starter

1st Gear

Joined: Oct 2018

Posts: 24

Likes: 1

From: Just outside Boston, MA

Rear hatch open with no power

hi all:

I just bought a 2013 base Mini. Green, the fast color. Sadly, it’s not very fast, as it has a blown engine (previous owner ran it out of oil). I’ve just started on the path of either replacing the motor or rebuilding it; I’m sure I’ll have questions on the way, and hopefully I’ll find a way to contribute too. But for starters, I have a simple question: how do I open the rear hatch with no battery power? I currently have the battery (and the entire engine/transmission, for that matter) out, and I really would like to store som estuary in the back....is there some easy way to do this?

I have Bentley, but no owners manual. :-/

Thanks,

Sam

Oct 8, 2018 | 05:56 AM

kaneguy

3rd Gear

Joined: Jun 2009

Posts: 227

Likes: 8

From: Conyers, Ga.

Check under the rear seat there should be release ring. Pull it and the rear should unlock

Oct 8, 2018 | 05:59 PM

samstoney

Thread Starter

1st Gear

Joined: Oct 2018

Posts: 24

Likes: 1

From: Just outside Boston, MA

Thanks! Sadly, I have lots of stuff in the back seat, so I’ll have to embark on that adventure on the weekend.

Oct 9, 2018 | 01:29 AM

mkov608

5th Gear

Joined: Feb 2009

Posts: 974

Likes: 231

From: Pensacola, FL

The "help I'm trapped in the hatch" manual hatch release is behind the compartment cover for the left rear tail light assembly. Look for a green D-ring.

Oct 9, 2018 | 01:33 AM

mkov608

5th Gear

Joined: Feb 2009

Posts: 974

Likes: 231

From: Pensacola, FL

Quote:

Originally Posted by samstoney

OBTW, knowing what I know now about these engines (recent valve job), I'd buy a crashed, low mileage, MINI and pull the pull the engine. These engines are made by a tool manufacturer, so if you're going to rebuild, make sure to set aside a lot of money for special tools.

Oct 9, 2018 | 06:16 PM

samstoney

Thread Starter

1st Gear

Joined: Oct 2018

Posts: 24

Likes: 1

From: Just outside Boston, MA

Thanks! I have a lot of resources when it comes to tools but, still, the economics of buying a used motor won out - just got an engine with 17K miles for $1,700. I’m sure my parts bill would have run at least that high.

Sam