Tmax seat latch not working

[Richhell]

hi i have a mk3 Tmax, the ignition barrel is tricky. I have to wiggle the key several times to get it to even switch on. The seat release is activated by the ignition barrel also and doesn't release at all. i'm not sure if it's cable or electronic (solenoid?) Does anyone have some advice for me for a fix. Maybe i can replace the actual cylinder and key? Thanks in advance. Btw, the scooter is brand new to me, today.

[MrGrumpy]

The mk3 does have a strange ignition barrel - it always feels like its about to fail, but sometimes never does! Make sure the seat is closed properly before you try to open it - if its not closed, it won't open, if that makes any sense! On the mk3 I think its a question of turning the key (left wards? I tend to do this by instinct) but make sure you aren't pushing the key inwards - just turn.

Getting a new cylinder is likely to be pricy - an only really practical if you have the red master key.

[Richhell]

Thanks for your reply. I will try anti clockwise tomorow. I only have one key, its not the red master. Is that linked to the computer? I have put wd40 inside the key opening and it has helped a little, ill try some lithium grease as well. Has anyone repaired one of these?

[MrGrumpy]

Not too sure exactly what's special about the red key, but if you want an extra key made, you have to have the master (red) key. Do you have an owner's manual? It might tell you more in that.

[Pukmeister]

My Mk3 ignition key needs to have a slight sideways force to it before it engages the seat lock mechanism. Insert it all the way home with a wiggle, then push the key gently sideways and rotate it, feeling for the click as the seat latch operates.

Its cable operated and the supplying Yamaha dealer (used bike) told me never to force it, do it by feel or risk damaging the mechanism. I suspect one of my bikes previous owners may have been heavy handed with it.

A bit of graphite lock powder in the ignition switch works wonders.

[Richhell]

My Mk3 ignition key needs to have a slight sideways force to it before it engages the seat lock mechanism. Insert it all the way home with a wiggle, then push the key gently sideways and rotate it, feeling for the click as the seat latch operates.

Its cable operated and the supplying Yamaha dealer (used bike) told me never to force it, do it by feel or risk damaging the mechanism. I suspect one of my bikes previous owners may have been heavy handed with it.

A bit of graphite lock powder in the ignition switch works wonders.

Thanks for the suggestions, i will try the graphite powder