1967 cabinet latch

pinktrailer · 07-09-2007, 05:57 AM

We've broken at least three of the brown plastic latches on the closets and storage compartments in our 1967 Overlander during the past three years. I've purchased some through Inland RV, but they are very expensive. Any suggestions for other sources, or different type of latch?

eubank · 07-09-2007, 08:18 AM

I don't know of an inexpensive alternative to the latch itself, but we've broken a bunch of them on ours, too. The most recent is the one in the cabinet under the oven. Of course, I should get online an order a bunch of new ones, but this time I'm just going to leave the latch in place and add a regular, hidden latch from the hardware store on the inside of the cabinet.

Lynn

Silverhobby · 07-09-2007, 09:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pinktrailer

Any suggestions for other sources, or different type of latch?

A PO of my 67 installed magnetic catches. This would not be ideal unless your trailers was a parked model. Since I still travel, I would use some sort of positive/friction catch that would keep the cabinets secured for travel.

pinktrailer · 07-09-2007, 10:50 AM

Great ideas! Thanks. I never thought of leaving those, and using something hidden to keep the doors closed. Gail

Inland RV Center, In · 07-09-2007, 10:50 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pinktrailer

We've broken at least three of the brown plastic latches on the closets and storage compartments in our 1967 Overlander during the past three years. I've purchased some through Inland RV, but they are very expensive. Any suggestions for other sources, or different type of latch?

We have the original latch mold that Airstream used.

Cheap prices for 40 year old parts is a thing of the past.

Magnetic latches pop open in tight turns.

Andy

LLB21 · 07-17-2007, 11:03 PM

Not a bad deal if they last another 40 years.

rideair · 07-18-2007, 07:59 AM

One must remember, nothing last forever. 40+years for a plastic latch is very good considering the temp changes, UV, etc... The plastics have also improved since that time. I would think the latches of today could last must longer than the original ones. My guess, the news ones will last until you sell the trailer or die. Either way, your good!

DesertStream · 07-18-2007, 08:13 AM

I have had fairly good luck repairing these using a soldering iron to melt the two peices back together. It takes some finesse and you should do it outside with good ventilation. I have one in my 1966 Tradewind that I may have to replace with a new one, but the other half dozen that I have repaired are still functional. The secret is training those that use your trailer not to let the doors slam shut. Easier said than done, I'm sure.