Locks in Access/SQL database causing timeouts

[Kubilus1]

I have an Access database linked to SQL server with a certain form containing a subform. The main form has a Combo box which is linked to the form to lookup entries. When an entry is chosen from the combo box, the corresponding data shows up in the main form and subform.

It appears however, that once this combo box is used, it grabs a lock in SQL server on some of the data in the subform. Using enterprise manager and viewing current activity I see that the combo box process is blocking the change data process. Once data is found with the combo box, you cannot change data in the subform due to the lock the combo box holds (just get an ODBC timeout message).

What can I due to get around this problem. I need to be able to lookup records in a combo box to appear in a form/subform combination. And I must be able to manipulate the data in the form or subform.

It seems I understand just enough SQL server and Access to get myself into trouble. I know locks can be dangerous if not used carefully, the last thing I want to do is mess up the locking scheme by using a SQL command I don't fully understand and trash the database.

Database:
Access 97 sr2b
SQL Server 7 sp3

Server:
WinNT 4 sp 6

Workstation:
win98SE

I would greatly appreciate any help,
Matt