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On the 2003 convertible I've had for three weeks, the fuel door latch "plunger" remained withdrawn into its base when I refueled this morning. I've pressed the plunger multiple times and the spring still functions, though there's not a great deal of travel left in that retracted position. Pressing the switch in the console makes no discernible noise, so I checked fuse 32 in the box and it's fine. Is the next step to find a new switch and declare AOG (or in the case CIG - Corvette in Garage)? (21k miles on the car, likely has not seen rain)
Additional info: the plunger finally popped out after I pressed the switch a few times, worked fine once, then stuck again. Closing the trunk lid popped it out again. I think it's the plunger mechanism rather than the console switch. I sprayed WD-40 on the base of the plunger and worked it multiple times, still stuck again.
Second edit: When I use the manual release cable inside the trunk, the plunger seems to work every time, and pulling the cable with the plunger stuck also releases it. Electrical issue, then, either with the switch in the console or one of those pesky grounding points?
Last edited by PetrofMII; Sep 26, 2023 at 02:22 PM.
Reason: More info
Still smells like a sticking issue to me. I haven't looked at the wiring diagram, but doesn't pulling the manual release just bypass the solenoid, pulling back the locking rod? If the spring is still springy, I say it's gummed up somehow. Can you take out the release mechanism and thoroughly clean and lube it?
Last edited by Vetteman Jack; Sep 27, 2023 at 01:07 AM.
Well, I haven't yet invested in all the tools and equipment I know I need, including a floor jack to replace the one I gave away many years ago when I thought I was done working on cars. But your thought process makes a great deal of sense to me. Sounds like a trip to Harbor Freight might be the next step.
Try using a multimeter an verify if get proper voltage and has a good ground connection to G302 and within the splicepack connector (shown below)
Maybe the switch is malfunction or maybe the actuator , the multimeter should identify the bad component
I have found that silicone spray works great. It also stops children's swings from squeaking and squealing.
Or, one of those many pesky "ground points". Best Regards
I'd like to add that, at least for long term lube, I'd recommend not using WD 40. WD 40 is OK for some things, but PB Blaster is a better penetrating oil. I find it interesting the emergency release cable works better. But I agree it does sound like a sticky plunger. Wish I could offer more help. Please post up what you find......
Last edited by grinder11; Sep 27, 2023 at 08:58 PM.
Fuel Door Remains Open
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