111-823-651 VW Beetle, Super Beetle & Ghia Hood Release Lever (1968-1979)

VW Hood Release Lever (Glovebox Mount) – 111-823-651

The 111-823-651 is the primary interior release handle used to unlock the front hood (trunk) on late-model air-cooled Volkswagens. Unlike early models with a simple pull-knob, this lever-style mechanism is designed to be mounted inside the glovebox on the far left side. It provides the necessary mechanical leverage to pull the hood release cable, popping the latch so the safety catch can be accessed from the exterior.

Over years of use, the pivot point on these levers can wear down, or the metal handle itself can bend or snap if the hood latch is improperly adjusted or seized. This high-quality replacement lever restores smooth, reliable operation to your trunk release system. Please note that this unit is sold as the lever only; it does not include mounting hardware, the knob, or the release cable itself.

Detailed Vehicle Compatibility This lever is designed for vehicles equipped with the factory glovebox-mounted remote release:

VW Beetle (Standard):

• 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977

VW Super Beetle:

• 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979

VW Karmann Ghia:

• 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974

Product Highlights & Features

• Durable Construction: Built to handle the high-tension requirements of the hood release cable without flexing.

• Glovebox Security: Maintains the factory security feature where the hood can only be accessed if the glovebox is unlocked.

• Direct OE Pattern: Engineered to match factory mounting holes for a straightforward installation.

• Versatile Mounting: Designed for the original 3-rivet factory look, but can easily be installed using small nuts and bolts for easier future maintenance.

Technical Specifications

• Part Number: 111-823-651

• Material: Heavy-Duty Steel/Alloy

• Mounting Type: 3-Hole Rivet or Bolt-on

• Hardware: Not Included

Installation & Maintenance Tips

• Mounting Hardware: While the factory used rivets, most restorers prefer using M4 or M5 nuts and bolts with washers. This makes it much easier to remove the lever later if you ever need to replace the release cable.

• Cable Lubrication: Before connecting the new lever, disconnect the cable from the hood latch and spray a cable lubricant into the housing. If the cable is hard to pull, it will eventually break your new lever.

• Latch Adjustment: If you have to pull the lever extremely hard to open the hood, adjust your Hood Latch and Striker Plate. The hood should pop open with moderate pressure on the lever.

• Avoid Pliers: Never use pliers on the lever if it feels stuck. This usually indicates a seized cable or latch; forcing the lever will result in the handle snapping at the pivot.

111823651