Latches

ApachePete · 05-10-2004, 02:17 PM

The ones that keep my glove-box lid and stereo cabinet doors closed have broken. Anybody know where I get replacements?

It's the black plastic part with the spring catch, screwed to the inside on the openings. Southco is the maker, #479873 and AA=44N.

Thanks.

Sure wish T'bird would use better hardware! Same crap as the head door.

353guy · 05-10-2004, 10:05 PM

I'm on my second Fastech and have had issues with both glove box latches. You're right they are cheap plastic. Have you tried contacting Formula - I plan on seeing if they'll send me a replacement.

ApachePete · 05-10-2004, 11:08 PM

I've contacted them, but no response yet.

RedDog382 · 05-11-2004, 01:01 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by ApachePete
Same crap as the head door.

Latches for the head and storage/referigerator doors can be purchased in stainless steel from West Marine. They cost twice as much as the plastic, but will not likely break and they look much better.

ThirdBird · 05-11-2004, 06:56 AM

PLASTIC????????

My old Bird doesn't have any stinking plastic hinges. I had no idea Formula stooped to such lows!!

I'd be calling Formula like right now demanding some REAL hinges. WTF?!?!?!?

RedDog382 · 05-11-2004, 07:37 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by ThirdBird
PLASTIC????????

My old Bird doesn't have any stinking plastic hinges. I had no idea Formula stooped to such lows!!

I'd be calling Formula like right now demanding some REAL hinges. WTF?!?!?!?

I think their goal with the white plastic latches was to achieve a "modern" monochromatic appearance in the cabin. I think they have since upgraded to the stainless latches in the newer boats ($50.00 each).

The re-designed glove box lid was also inferior, leading to broken hinges and lids. I know they have upgraded the design on the glovebox on the '04 models. Wish there was a retro-fit fix on this one!

It's easy in retrospect to think that something should have been made better, but I have to say ... they really did it right on the cabin hatchway with the sliding clamshell door. The older swing door was a major P.I.T.A.! Can't remember how many times I repaired the one in my 311.

Despite a few minor design problems, I think we all have to admit that Formula is still, by far, the best boat company to deal with, period!

ApachePete · 05-11-2004, 10:25 AM

My problem is not hinges, but the spring-loaded latch that keeps the lid or door closed.

I went to West Marine, and they didn'y have anything like what I need, either plastic or stainless.

Still not response from Decatur.

GregP · 05-11-2004, 02:45 PM

Why not order them direct from Southco? Are they out of production?

-Greg

ApachePete · 05-11-2004, 02:57 PM

They only see through distributors, who usually can't be bothered with 1 or 2.

GregP · 05-11-2004, 03:08 PM

I know we buy through them, but maybe the company has a direct PO with them (and we often by only a dozen or less). Sometimes you can also call on behalf of a company and ask for 1 or 2 samples to "test".

That part number comes up as a captive screw???

I'll check and see who we buy our from, you might also check McMaster-Carr or MSC to see if they carry them.

-Greg