1st Generation Specific (1979-1985) 1979-1985 Discussion including performance modifications and technical support sections

How To: Repair the hatch lock

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Old 05-17-06, 11:39 AM
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Thunder from downunder

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Talking How To: Repair the hatch lock

I have two FBs with the same problem thought I'd share an easy fix with you guys.

The rubber that isolates the latch shrinks with age and allows the latch to move about causing locking problems, some can be adjusted and tightened but i decided to fix it once and for all.

Remove two large retaining screws and remove both top and bottom plates. Each plate has a rubber gasket insulating the metal from the glass.

The rubber that protrudes into the glass holes is the one that shinks.

Cut the two pieces of rubber that extend into the glass holes off.

I had a piece of silicone heater hose, but regular will do, cut 2 pieces of about 1/4" length, slide them into the glass holes. This hose was an exact fit, couldn't be luckier.

replace the remaining stock items, the metal posts will take a little coaxing but will go into the heater hose nicely. Tighten and test the lock works. Now my latch wont move at all.

I found I had a problem with the striker so removed the rear trim, loosened the catch panel and raised it about 1/4".

Now my latch is secure, I can close and lock my back hatch, it doesn't jump open over dips, rattles are vastly reduced as is exhaust sound (well a little bit)

Steve
Old 05-17-06, 04:52 PM
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Ricer

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What is diameter of hose? Nice writeup. My new subs like to open my hatch while going down the highway.
Old 05-17-06, 04:57 PM
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Thunder from downunder

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I had to go out in the rain just for you Ian. LOL

5/8 OD and 3/8 ID.
Old 05-17-06, 04:57 PM
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My first question for both of you is what kind of shape is the hatch weatherstrip in? As that ages, and shrinks, it can affect the tightness of the latch too.

Steve, you're just full of ideas today, aren't you.
Old 05-17-06, 04:59 PM
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Thunder from downunder

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Mine is in pretty good shape actually, strip has no rips and is standing up to useage. It looks as though it may have been replaced and that's why i had to raise the catch.
Old 05-17-06, 05:05 PM
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thats a good idea with a hose so the bolt doesnt move at all. I never thought of that. thanks meng
Old 05-18-06, 01:02 AM
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this should go to arcives for futur refernce i may need it my latch is movin when i cleaned the car

awsome mate
Old 05-18-06, 01:54 AM
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Originally Posted by IanS
What is diameter of hose? Nice writeup. My new subs like to open my hatch while going down the highway.
damn i want that............teenager talkin
Old 05-18-06, 06:20 AM
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Its just a couple of nice 10s in a nice slot ported box with a nice 900 watt amp.
Old 05-18-06, 04:42 PM
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Originally Posted by blwfly
awsome mate
It was an easy fix but works like its a new lock.
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