Is there a way to open the hatch from the inside, without a key? MY 85 rx didn't come with a remote hatch opener, and it's really a pain not to be able to get into the rear compartment

 

Are the wires for the remote opener still there? You could apply power to a push button style switch to open it.

 

I don't believe there was a remote opener, the lever to open it is a blank filler panel, I think my 7 was 1 of the more stripped down models in terms of options, there's no power steeting. But it was a turbo model

 

There are no factory USA Turbo 1st gens.

In order to get in you lift the carpeting out of the way on the left side as you are facing from inside the car. You reach up and there is the release rod that you have to either pull or push away from you and the hatch will release.

And you can easily upgrade to the power hatch opener. That's all you need is the power release solenoid that bolts in place. The wiring is already there. Then you need the power hatch switch. The opening is already there on the bottom left side of the under dash. The wiring is already there also.

Most all of the 81-85 models cars are wired to accept the accesories.

 

you're probably just missing the push switch. Remove the lower left dash trim and you'll likely see the wiring harness connector for it. Wouldn't surprise me if the plastic pegs that held the switch mounting screws are broken off.

 

That's right, even the base model had the hatch release and the fuel release. It is the earlier 81-83 models that it was an option on. Disregard my 1st post about the switch but if it missing or broken still use the method to open with out the key.

 

I just got the electric hatch opener at the junk yard and installed iton the SA..Then wired it to a push button switch I got from autozone. Works fine..

 

Hunh, then I'm VERY confused was there aftermarket turbo's created for the 12a? That's the problem with a semi-car guy, buying a car from a non-car guy. The gent I bought the car from told me there was a turbo on it that was stolen, and the thiefs also took the carb as well as the exaust manifold.

I assume that the 12a is the only model in 1st gens that was carburated.

Regards,
TX Sumo

PS yup, it's Monday morning but if no one panics we can get through this with a minimal amount of blood shed