closet latches 59 Traveler

[CindyH]

Need to take apart closet spring-loaded latch to refinish metal plate. Can someone tell me how they work, or how to get them back together after I manage to get them apart?

[59toaster]

Cindy:
I'll try to look at my 59 in the next day or so. The way it latchs is the tip on the knob looks like a bent over screwdriver tip. it engages the spring metal peice and hooks. When you turn the knob it spreads the spring metal to alow it to release.
I'll have to look at mine to see how the knob attaches to the mounting plate. It's probably a c-clip on the back side. If so a sharp pair of needle nose plyers will take it off.

[CindyH]

Thanks for taking the time. I'll watch for your reply. That is how the latch works on mine. There is a round metal ring that seems to hold the parts together...not exactly a C clip but the same principle. I haven't yanked it off yet...didn't know what would spring apart or whether I'd be able to get it back together and working properly.
Cindy