Reposted from General Section - serves me right for not poking about the forum first LOL

I've just bought a 2002 Freelander ES auto. It's got a solid parcel shelf with what looks like a lock in the middle but when you lift the latch it's just a solid piece of plastic with no lock. Why? as there's nothing underneath the cover, no hidey holes etc. to need a lock anyway.

But the thing that's really puzzling me is this - there are two strings with loops on just like a normal parcel shelf which you would hook to side stubs near the top of the tailgate. But the Freelander's tailgate opens sideways, not up the way and these strings are hanging below the shelf not fitted to the top.

Where are you supposed to hook the strings to/what's the point of them if not to lift the cover out of your way?

Can anybody enlighten me please?

i think im right in saying the solid parcel shelf is from a three door and the roller type is for a 5 door. I think the solid one is so people cant go through ya boot if you have the roof off it? dunno if im right though!

Provided you have a 3dr, then the flap that looks like it should have a keyhole underneath is just used to lift the parcel shelf when the roof is removed and the tailgate is closed.

The springy strings connect to the two anchor points at either side in the boot and prevent the parcel shelf from lifting up when driving along at speed with the roof removed.

It is a 3 door. It makes sense now, I just couldn't see anything about it in the handbook.

Many thanks.