Rusty seat lock cable

[cokebottle10]

I went to install external cables for my new Ctex charger and could not get the seat to unlatch. I ended up having to take the coolant tank loose and use a long screw driver to tension the cable at the latch. I then removed the latch, cable and lock. The cable was rusted but with it out of the bike I was able to get it free. I guess because the cable is mounted in a U shape with the ends pointed up, water can collect in the bottom of the U.

I used electric contact cleaner to get most of the rust out. Then 3 in 1 oil to lube it. When I installed it back in the bike (what a pain) the latch would not fully open. I had to pull the cable back off the lock and remove the lock along with the metal mount that holds the cable on that end. The metal mount was bent a little. I put it in my vise and straighten it back out. I guess it got bent when I was trying to get the cable to move.

This is the second time I have had problems with the seat lock. The first time I got it unlocked when I finally pushed down on the seat. Anyway, I have a new cable on order from the dealer for less than $8.00.

Thanks, David in Fletcher NC

[Otus]

Mine seems not to want to open when the bike is warm, but when its cool it pops right open.