I tried to open the engine cover today, the lever was stiff, but did work in the end.
Then the cover wouldn't latch. I pulled on the cable outer sheath and it worked.
I've taken the latch off and disconnected it and the cable won't run smoothley at all.
This must be a cable issue.
Any ideas folks? It looks like a pig of a job to replace.
Try rigging up something to hold the end of the cable up as high as you can. Dribble WD40 into the cable until it starts coming out the other end. Follow that up with 3-in-1 oil.
Works on old motorbikes!!