Is there a button in the cabin that you can press to pop the hatch? My xj didn't come with power locks, but I have the hatch/tailgate solenoid.
Sorry if this is a stupid question.
I tried to search for it. Seems like its only operated with a remote.
I really want to have this feature

 

No, there never was an option for a "in-cab" release button.

 

Nope, As far as I know it was never an option. Although it would be nice to have at times.

 

I see. Well, I know what my next project will be - to wire an in cab button to release the hatch. I think next time I'm at the junk yard, I'll grab a release button from a cavalier.
I find it strange that the solenoid is only used when operated with a remote. It's already wired, so I just need to find the wires to tap into under the dash.

 

The thing is, The solenoid that is there is only to unlock the hatch. You would also need to rig a one to pop open the hatch along with some kind of spring setup. Like you said next time you hit the jy find a car that already has everything to pop open the trunk and get everything related to it and you should be set. That's what I did when I had my 67 T-Bird. Found all the parts at the jy and set it up and it worked great.