How do you get the hood open on Pontiac transport when hood release breaks?

Answer 1

OK you have come to the right guy, I just spent the last 2 days on this (for the 2nd time). This is for a 1994 Pontiac Transport Minivan 3.8L engine. First time cable broke I created a small hook in a clothes hanger to snag the cable. This was pretty easy. With hook down and hanger slightly bent downward, snag the cable that's left attached to the hood release by slipping from the front between the hood and the top of the latch, a little right of center and approx. 7 1/2" back. Pull the remaining cable through to the front and you should be able to open hood by pulling hard. Now, the second way, which sucks, because the mechanic who replaced the cable is a moron. If the cable becomes detached you have no choice but to pop the latch. It is done from underneath and you need room. First, remove or bend back, the plastic protective covering under the van the length of the radiator. Next, remove the 2 screws, top & bottom, that hold the radiator fan to the center support, loosen wiring and allow fan to hang as low as possible so you can get your right hand up to the safety latch at the top of the center support. Next, take a long, slender screwdriver and slip the end in next to the safety latch arm above the center post, coming in from the passenger side and angle towards the front of the vehicle at approx. 30 degree upward angle. It may take a few times but you will be able to press the latch and the hood will release. Other articles I have read about removing the grille or taking out the front bolts do not apply to this vehicle, trust me. That hole at the top of the center support where the safety latch comes through is the only access I see where the latch is accessible. Remember to push latch towards the driver side to release.