Unlocking drawers on roll top desk

I'm not understanding why the roll top is stuck in an open position. It would seem to me that it should be moving freely if it is already unlocked.

It was moving before. However, when we set up this computer, I had to push the top all the way up. It then became stuck. There are two different keys to the desk. The longer one moves the lock on the roll top and unlocked it. I have no idea what the smaller one does. The center drawer is unlocked, and I think this is controlled by the roll top lock. There are four drawers on either side of the desk front, and these are the ones that remain locked. I cannot locate another key hole!

I know it's a pain, but you should be able to take the back of the desk off. There might be two separate parts for the back - one for the bottom and one for the roll top. The back piece or pieces may be attached to the frame of the desk with large staples, nails or screws. Chances are, that the back is not also glued on in addition to being fastened on with the fasteners. However, it might also be attached with glue. If it is, it will be much harder to get it off.

If staples, then you carefully pry out the staples with a small screwdriver and then pull on them with a pair of pliers. If nails, then you can try prying the nails out the same way. However, you may need to pry off the back itself with a large chisel inserted in the cracks. If screws, just unscrew them.

My point is, that if you can get the back off, you should be able to see why the roll top is stuck and then be able to free it.

As far as the drawers are concerned, there might be a mechanism that is keeping them locked that you should also be able to see by taking off the back.

I think that the next time a "handy" friend visits, I will either ask that person to help or to "break" into the drawers and forget about the locks. The desk is extremely heavy and difficult to move. I do however, want something that maybe locked in one of the drawers!

If forced up, will need to be forced down, force with key one way and then turn other way.
A "Handy" friend may apply more force than you would want to. A good thing.

I have two different keys for the desk. One is clearly for the top because when inserted, it moves the locking/unlocking mechanism for the roll top. The other one does nothing, and I am assuming it is for the side drawers. Has anyone ever seen WHERE another key hole might be on a roll top desk? It sounds like something at the rear of the side drawers is preventing opening them.

Hi, I am an antique furniture restorer by trade and It sounds like the slats on your rolltop have come unstuck from there hessian backing causing them to jam? This has probably fouled the locking mechanism for the other drawers? This really is not a DIY job to repair and is best left to a professional. I am based in Exeter and if I can be of any more help please let me know. Good luck, Jim

Where is Exeter?

I was wondering where Exeter was also, sounds like Expensive Shipping.(Doesn't sound close to here).