Roof latches

[buckland]

11 years on they are rusting. Any better material ones folks can suggest for replacement?

 

[Bosque Bill]

Yikes, that doesn't look good. I don't really have a great solution ready to hand (other than to maybe suggest some sort of anti-corrosion coating on the replacements—11 years isn't too bad.) And to subscribe to the topic as my threads are getting a bit of rust after 9 years. I guess I should take my own damn advice and wire brush the threads and treat them with something. Suggestions?

 

[buckland]

I have used this product and it works well … the used liquid can be reused many times. If I can’t find stainless replacements I’ll do one at a time. One can coat it with an enamel but the threads would have to be oiled.

 

[JaSAn]

I replaced mine with the painted version of these:
https://www.amazon.com/Class-Customs-Stainless-Locking-Camper/dp/B08RZCN8MY/ref=dp_prsubs_2?pd_rd_i=B08RZCN8MY&psc=1

If you just want restore the current latches the best solution is a protective coating like POR-15.
Then there are rust inhibitors that will need to be reapplied periodically.
The least effective is an oil as it is washed off by rain rather quickly and need to be reapplied often.

For threads an anti-seize or other non water soluble grease will work but will need periodic checking and re-application.

 

[buckland]

These look like just the ticket. Stainless so paint not needed. Bummer have to buy 2 sets of four.
I think I’ll check out McMaster Carr to see if they have similar by piece. If not I will buy these. Thanks for the link.!

 

[Bosque Bill]

I have used this product and it works well … the used liquid can be reused many times. If I can’t find stainless replacements I’ll do one at a time. One can coat it with an enamel but the threads would have to be oiled.

IMG_6087.JPG

The Evapo-Rust GEL might be the best for the threads as it wouldn't require removing and soaking. Thanks.

On second thought, removing and soaking seems like a better solution.

I walked out and examined mine and there is actually little to no rust at present. Whew. I will keep an eye on them.

 

[buckland]

I replaced mine with the painted version of these:
https://www.amazon.com/Class-Customs-Stainless-Locking-Camper/dp/B08RZCN8MY/ref=dp_prsubs_2?pd_rd_i=B08RZCN8MY&psc=1

If you just want restore the current latches the best solution is a protective coating like POR-15.
Then there are rust inhibitors that will need to be reapplied periodically.
The least effective is an oil as it is washed off by rain rather quickly and need to be reapplied often.

For threads an anti-seize or other non water soluble grease will work but will need periodic checking and re-application.

As the screw pattern is not the same, I assume you had to silicone fill all the old holes?
rob

 

[buckland]

Just was going through the McMaster Carr site and they have the exact (99% sure) replacement. Though surprised at the cost ($21 each) but that would save me re-drilling and plugging holes. Attached is the PDF

 

[Wandering Sagebrush]

Rob, if it’s just surface rust, why not just cleanup the old ones? The picture didn’t look that bad. On the threads, a little oxidation helps keep the latch from needing readjusted.

 

[buckland]

Thanks Steve. I just came in after another gander and I have come around to that very same conclusion. Cheaper too! Well at least if someone needs a latch the ones I posted (I measured all holes ) are a perfect match.

 

[JaSAn]

As the screw pattern is not the same, I assume you had to silicone fill all the old holes?
rob

My Grandby is old (1976) so I had the old style draw latches so I was drilling new holes anyway.
Old holes were filled with caulk and were covered by the new latch footprint.

I agree with WSage, unless you are adjusting the latches periodically rust on the threads will just lock them in place.

 

[buckland]

I spent an hour wire brushed them all. I then snuck in and got the wife's "Hard as Nails" clear enamel and coated them all where there was rust. I can live with it. A lot less work/time/money. Maybe I'll go with a sexy color next time!

 

[PaulT]

I spent an hour wire brushed them all. I then snuck in and got the wife's "Hard as Nails" clear enamel and coated them all where there was rust. I can live with it. A lot less work/time/money. Maybe I'll go with a sexy color next time!

For a sexy color, choose a high visibility color for the parts visible when latch is open to make it easy to see that all latches are released when popping the top & that all are closed when preparing to leave. Two birds, one stone.

Paul
ps. Also requires the ability to count to six.

 

[Casa Escarlata Robles Too]

At 13 years I haven't had any major rust issues.
Just a bit of white oxidizing on the threads.
Nothing like your rusted parts.
Frank

 

[2Z Bundok]

I was glad to seal and re-drill holes as the original holes egged out (slightly rotted) and screws rusty. It occurs to me that the threads are only used for initial adjustment. With proper adjustment it would be ok to remove and paint the threads! breaking the paint only at the necessary, standard use, hinge points. Good for another 10 years.