I'm having trouble with the latch/handle-pull for my right saddlebag. When I turn the key in the rear to the appropriate horizontal position, either the pull-handle will not move at all or will pull completely, but not engage the release mechanism. I will have to turn the key back to verticle and then horizontal again to pull the handle and engage the release cable. Sometimes I have to do this two or three times.

My bike has been custom-painted as you can tell, which means the saddlebags were taken off their stays and painted. Could it be that they aren't exactly to stock, keeping the release cable from engaging?

It's getting aggravating and I'm gonna have to pull my seat to see what's what.

Any other ideas?