Looking For A Fix For A Broken Propane Tank Lid / Latch Catch

[Re-Pete]

Here are two pictures of the back side of the propane tank cover showing the latch and the missing portion of the lid where the catch used to be. This lid is plastic (not sure if they all are). Does anyone have a fix for this? Both pictures will enlarge if clicked. I'm currently using a bungee set up to hold the lid closed while traveling. We're off to the Blue Ridge Parkway day after tomorrow for a week of autumn leaf watching, which I mention in case I seem slow to respond.

[J. Morgan]

I would just rivet a piece of 1/8" thick aluminum stock that is the same width as the lip and buy a new over center latch to fix it close to stock.

This will work well, it will look good, and it will be cheap and easy. The aluminum stock is available at Home Depot as is the over center latch.

I would run the stock the full length of the cover.

On edit, i might use screws and nuts instead of rivets due to the possibility that the ends of the rivets might get in the way of the lid closing right.

If you use machine screws and nuts, you can trim/grind the screws flush with the nuts to minimize interference.

[sandlapper]

If you don't mind spending a few bucks, just replace the top and the latch. Out of Doors Mart has them both. John

[Re-Pete]

Both good ideas, I wasn't sure if the just the lid was available. Also I purchased a sheet of aluminum about 4" x 12" x 1/16" two days ago with the idea of cutting out a piece to fit across the lip of the lid. Fasteners, of any sort, to hold it on seem problematic. I'm going to look into replacing the lid and see what that costs. Thanks for both suggestions.