I'd probably want to convert it to pure manual lock on the rear hatch
myself.

I believe that's straightforward parts swap  work if you get the manual lock
parts. Would be 86 and later I believe.

don't know about where you are ..but where I am, where it's 90 to 100 every
last day in blazing hot sun ...
it's just delightful about 2 or 3 AM ..
and easier to see what you're workin' on even with a good headlamp.
compaired to blazing hot sunlight everywhere.
Way mo' betta at night.
I don't understand at all why the world stays on the daytime thing in the
hot summer.  Makes no sense.,.
all those highway workers out in the intense sun and UV .  Dysfunctional
even.

I converted a Wolfsburg passenger's front door from electric lock to manual
..
easy as long as you have the manual lock parts.

Scott
www.turbovans.com

----- Original Message -----
From: "John Rodgers" <inua@CHARTER.NET>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Thursday, July 22, 2010 1:13 PM
Subject: Carat rear hatch lock fails to unlock with key

>  I've a 91 Carat. Having trouble with the rear hatch lock. Tried
> powering up. Heard the rear hatch lock servo drive down (or up as the
> case may be). Key will not unlock the hatch. I really don't want to have
> to climb inside and remove that rear panel to get at that lock,
> especially in the heat we are having here in Alabam right now.
> Suggestions appreciated.
>
> Question: Can the rear hatch electric lock be replaced with a standard
> key operated lock? I don't like funky electrical c**p and if I have to
> tear into that panel, I want a permanent fix. I have no problem going
> manual if it can reasonably be done.
>
> Thanks
>
> John
>
> --
> John Rodgers
> Clayartist and Moldmaker
> 88'GL VW Bus Driver
> Chelsea, AL
> Http://www.moldhaus.com