I got this 69 Firebird from someone just trying to make a buck, and he got it from the mother of some guy who just went to county. So there are a few problems with it and no one to ask. So I come to you all and your wealth of knowledge and good looks to ask:

How the hell does the trunk lock and latch go together?!

I keep getting lid mount style lock cylinders from NAPA when I ask for body mount. The hole in the rear panel for the cylinder is about 2" lower than the "release hole" in the trunk latch. Even when looking at a lock handle shaft from Classic Industries for a body mount, I'm not sure how it can line up and still turn the release.

I have a bird and a spacer sitting in the trunk, but can someone please send me a few pictures of their body-mounted 69 trunk lock or point me in the right direction? I'd really LOVE to put my rear seats back in

Try these pics.

Thanks a million. So if I'm seeing it right, I guess I'm missing the ball/u-joint looking thing, which make sense since I couldn't see the handle making the angle on the latch. Thanks again, now I have to hunt for that thing.

The best place to hunt is right here on this board. If you cannot find the part here, you won't be able to find it anywhere. Lot's of fgf board members sell a lot on eRape, but they often give fgf board members first cracks at the parts.

try Terry Ritter (954) 721-1459 backyardparts@bellsouth.net or FirebirdBill earlybrds@aol.com ...they may (probably) have what you`re looking for

It's an odd little ball and socket jointed, two piece lock rod. As far as I know, it's not reproduced. However, PY sells a replacement of a different design.

Might almost be easier to try to get one of the remote/power releases for now since this won't be a resto for a few years to come But thanks for all the info guys, you have been a great help! My first question (and longshot at that) and I get more responses than I could have ever hoped for.

I'll apologize now for the wave of novice questions I am sure I will flood the board with in the weeks to come. I thought I had a good knowledge base before I bought my '69 coupe, but how ignorant I am now that it's in front of me. Guess working on these modern cars with computers and fuel injection doesn't really prepare you for anything like this. But I'm learning!

Thanks again for all the info guys.

no apologies necessary ,we have all been there ....I`m still there..