Brompton won't stay folded

[Paulus]

I have an elderly, 20 year old M3. When folded, as soon as it is picked up the front wheel and bars will come loose and swing out. The hook is intact, and the the stays for the front mudguard aren't bent. Any Ideas please.

 

[Ming the Merciless]

Picture please

 

[rafiki]

Can the seatpost be pushed down any further?

 

[Paulus]

I have an elderly, 20 year old M3. When folded, as soon as it is picked up the front wheel and bars will come loose and swing out. The hook is intact, and the the stays for the front mudguard aren't bent. Any Ideas please.

 

[Paulus]

Can the seatpost be pushed down any further?

No, the seat post goes fully down.

 

[Paulus]

Picture please

Done.

 

[Nibor]

Does the hook engage with the chainstay properly?

 

[Paulus]

Does the hook engage with the chainstay properly?

Initially, yes.

 

[Paulus]

It is almost like the rear wheel and stays drop slightly when lifted, allowing the hook to come free.

 

[steveindenmark]

It does sound like the seatpost is not dropping all the way down. That is what locks it all together.

 

[Schwinnsta]

See if this applies

 

[berlinonaut]

Possibly you have lost the stopper disk that is attached behind the rear brake or it needs adjustment. When you drop the seat post and lift the bike the stopper disk is blocked by the seat post and hinders the rear frame from dropping and as a consequence the folded bike disassembling the folded package.

 

[Paulus]

Possibly you have lost the stopper disk that is attached behind the rear brake or it needs adjustment. When you drop the seat post and lift the bike the stopper disk is blocked by the seat post and hinders the rear frame from dropping and as a consequence the folded bike disassembling the folded package.

Indeed, I have just had a proper look again and the stopper disc is not there.
I have had the bike for 18 years, bought second hand, and although this problem did occur occasionally, it now happens every time.

 

[Paulus]

I thank you all for the swift replies.
Stopper pad now ordered.

 

[ExBrit]

Indeed, I have just had a proper look again and the stopper disc is not there.
I have had the bike for 18 years, bought second hand, and although this problem did occur occasionally, it now happens every time.
View attachment 612139

Glad it was an easy fix.