Removing Stuck T-LOC Lid

[dlu]

I have a T-Loc Midi that was somehow closed with the overlapping part of the bottom at the rear of the case outside of the matching overlap on the top. As a result, the case won't open.

So, I'm wondering how to go about removing the hinge pins – without being able to get to the inside of the case. I've tried prying the hinge pin out and I'm not making much progress. One option, I suppose, would be to drill a hole in the pin, drive a screw into the hole and try pulling on that.

Any other suggestions?

 

[AlexThePalex]

Just grab the lid on the front and pull it open. It's a plastic box.

 

[Systainer.Store]

Does pulling off the T-Loc help to relieve pressure that you can open the lid?

 

[AstroKeith]

I've found that the systainer plastic has quite a good memory retention when gently heated. I had some badly bent parts on one which after gentled heating went back to near perfect.

So I might try warming up the back (hairdryer levels or low heat gun) and wrench it open. Then use the heat again to repair any damage.

 

[Svar]

I've had this happen few times. Just forcing it open will damage the lid.
Depending on how far you can open and what's inside you might be able to get to the pin with a long metal rod or a hook (C-clamp) and push the hinge out. I've also done screw approach. That worked too.

 

[dlu]

I didn't have the courage to try forcing the lid or using heat. So I resorted to drilling a small hole (5/32") in the hinge pin and driving a #8 sheet metal screw into the hole. Then I clamped a pair of vice grips onto the screw and pulled hard. Nothing.

However, a couple of taps on the vice grips with a mallet and the hinge pin popped right out. Reseated the lid, removed the screw, and tapped the pin back in.