Ironrite 88 issue - opening?

[ironmaiden]

Hi. New here. This seems like a simple thing, so I feel silly posting, but I really don't know what else to do.

I have an ironrite 88, mahogany case, that I purchased a couple years ago, after 10 years of wanting one rather badly.

Disappointingly, I haven't been able to plug it in, check it over, much less iron anything with it because the lid seems to be stuck. Or maybe jammed?

I'm a female with shoulder issues, but I've pulled moderately hard on the lid.
Is there a release lever or some kind of hidden latch? I'm worried I'll damage the lid using force.

I have both the owners & service manuals and I've browsed videos, but I haven't found instructions on this. I'd think the lid should pull up easily without ruining a 1960s manicure, and gently tip back without capsizing the stereotypical high-heel wearing housewife ?

I've tried opening the case in both humid & dry conditions, and different temps (though not above 75*)

Could anyone offer any instructions or suggestions? Am I missing something? Or do I just need to get a strong man to heave on the top really hard?

Thank you,
Ironmaiden
Atlanta, GA

 

[launderess]

Cover should just tilt backwards.

If thing has sat sitting for sometime unused lid may be stuck to base. Try taking a putty knife or another thin but sturdy object and slip between lid and base. Work around ironer carefully trying to jimmy two halves apart.

Another thing to try is some one holding base down while another person attempts to shift lid upwards and back.

May require someone able to put a bit of muscle into this project.

 

[ironmaiden]

Cover should just tilt backwards.

If thing has sat sitting for sometime unused lid may be stuck to base. Try taking a putty knife or another thin but sturdy object and slip between lid and base. Work around ironer carefully trying to jimmy two halves apart.

Another thing to try is some one holding base down while another person attempts to shift lid upwards and back.

May require someone able to put a bit of muscle into this project.

Thank you for the info and tips! Much appreciated.