Can anyone please tell me how I might separate the locking mechanism from the casing in a 68 Dyane boot handle?
I've managed to free it a bit but it either doesn't rotate in both key positions or it rotates (almost) freely in both key positions.

68 boot handle by ipacey, on Flickr

Normally they are like the 2cv handles. Tap it with a soft hammer on the square part and it should slide out to the front were the key is. I think i have an old handle like that somewhere i can have a look for you just to be sure.

I'm thinking this is not a good thing...

68_bootLock_issue on Flickr

Any suggestions please?

I'm thinking your right!

Try eBay for a replacement. Looks like you could re use the tumbler and key.

Inner part maybe the same lenght/size as the 2cv boot handle.

The parts of a 2cv boot handle (1967)



Probably the same length, just the handle shape that is different.



In your case, the part on the right is shattered. I had a similar thing with the ignition lock/switch on a CX, and that was a swine to get out!



This is the piece that has caused most trouble.
The item slides within the barrel casing, and has a sprung loaded plunger which locks into a slot in the inner barrel.

It suffers from dirt and corrosion, and the small spring can break, leaving it unusable. All parts must be stripped and cleaned, and lubricated with (ideally) graphite powder.

This mechanism was taken off the boot lid, stripped, cleaned, lubricated and rebuilt in 15 minutes. Wonderful cars!

Before putting them together i grease all the parts that keeps the moisture out, but you will have dirty key the first few days

Yes, they are same parts inside. Only the handle is different, this type only for early Dyane...

Thanks everyone.
That means the remains of the bit on the right here that has broken should come out the handle then. I'll look into that...

That's odd - can't see my images now. Is it me, or are they gone for everyone?
I was using TinyPic if it helps.

Just checked - looks like the TinyPic plugin is off line.