R69US toolbox lock question

[CTHalk]

I just bought an original R69S that had been stored poorly. It's pretty rusty, but I was looking for a project. The gas tank is shot, having a few holes rusted in it. The toolbox door is locked. My question is, which way does the lock turn to unlock? Thanks for any tips.

[Friedle]

My key turns to the right to open. If your key won't open the toolbox door, you can always just pry the door open since the tank is junk already.

Do you know if there is anything in the toolbox or are you just searching Al Capone's vault like Geraldo?

Friedle

[CTHalk]

Thanks for the key direction. I'd like to open it without destroying the door or the lock. Years ago I worked for a lock and safe company, so I'll try a non-destructive method first, now that I know which way to turn it. Maybe there is a nice original tool kit in there? Or a dead mouse? Or a pile of rust? I'll find out..... My expectations are low, so if it is empty, I will be ok. If there is anything interesting in there... I'll post!

[20774]

Is this for the small tank...the tool compartment on the left side? It does turn CW to open...not sure about the compartment on the top of the tank. Someone on the /2 Yahoo forum had the exact same problem. I find that mine is a bit tight to turn the key but if I push in on the door, the key will turn easier.

Kurt in S.A.

[DarrylRi]

If you can't make the key turn, and you want to preserve what might still be usable in the way of parts, you can pry off the kneepad and drill out the rivets that hold the lock to the door. The lock will fall inside the toolbox and the door will open.

[CTHalk]

Well, after half an hour of pick work, I got the toolbox door open to find...you guessed it... absolutely nothing inside. I was surprised that it took me so long, but it turns out that the lock 'blade' was surface rusted from years of never being opened, and so was reluctant to move. But at least it is open, and I can sleep at night, no longer wondering what is in there! Now, to start on evaluating the rest of the bike. The top end is frozen, soaking now in penetrant. I am hoping that when I get the top end off, the crank is clean and rust-free! Hal

[mthelmet]

How about filling in your profil. It will help when we need to see where you are from and if some one might be in your area to answer ? over coffee.

[CTHalk]

Anybody ever restore a really ratty R69S? I'ma gonna give it a try.... I'll leave it ratty original finish, but want it mechanically excellent inside. After replacing the transmission on my R1100RT-P, the R69S looks inviting! Hal

[DarrylRi]

I got 5 boxes of parts and a frame for free. Now it's my R60/2 that I've put 20k miles on. Be careful, however; this can really suck you in. Now I have a BMW from 7 of the 9 decades they've been making them...