Rear Hatch on XJ

[Chapes1010]

So i have been tinkering with my 89 cherokee a lot lately since i have all my parts to finnish my build up except my lift. . . (need more $$$ for that) but i cant seem to get the rear hatch open, ive tryed the key numerous times with no help, the key wont turn either way and the button wont move why i try to push it in, is there anyother way i could get it off? if not im about to take a hammer to it break the lock then if that works im putting my other hatch in.

 

[Bounty__Hunter]

You can remove the interior panel and access the latch mechanism, and may be able to jimmy the latch from the inside.