Good Afternoon Wayne,
I can't find any info on the motor in the hood compartment of the E30 that pulls the wires to hold the locks on the compartment lid shut. On my E30 I believe there is an attachment missing as the motor is not engaging with the lever that's attached to the wires so the lid won't lock.
I don't know if you have a photo of yours or any idea of the part that is missing?
I've attached a photo so you can see the bit I mean,
Thanks for you help,
Arthur