Gas door does not spring open

[michaeltpo]

My fuel filling door does not automatically spring open when the latch next to the driver is pulled. It does not lock either when the door is pushed shut. To open the door I can pry it open with my finger. Is there a quick fix for this?
This is one of the many things I have lived with on my SHO until I discovered this forum where it seems someone has an answer for every problem. Thanks.

 

[JaySHOguy]

Next time you have it open, look at the little metal tabs close to the outer edge. I bet one of them is slightly bent. Fool around with those some.

 

[jelloslug]

Does it stay slightly open when you close it? Look in the fuel filler hole to the left and find the latch. Open the trund and find the emergency fuel door release cable and pull it while you are looking at the latch. If nothing moves check to see if anything is bound up (you may need to take the latch appart and clean the gunk out of it)

 

[Ishodu]

Mine did this exact same thing. The clip spring assembly broke. I needed a new one cost me about 8 bucks Canadian, ford stealer had it in stock. Most fords use the same piece. One bolt holds it on and takes about 30 seconds to replace.

 

[Fiddledeede2]

I have a similar problem. My clip broke and so I bought a new one from the dealer and installed it. However, the gas door still does not spring open. One can pry it open by pulling on the release lever in the trunk and using a flat knife. I tried messing around with the metal tabs on the outer edge but that didn't seem to help.

I know that the mecahnism works because I can see it pull back when I pull on the release lever in the trunk. However, when the clip is engaged, it appears as though it does not however pull it far enough back or the fit is too tight for it to release the catch. With little effort, I can release it with a flat knife. Any ideas?

 

[MO-KAN SHO]

michaeltpo:
I discovered this forum where it seems someone has an answer for every problem.

Amen to that... this forum's a lifesaver hail ...

I've had the same problem since I bought the car, and now I know what's needed without even asking! How sweet is that?