ApachePete

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

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

I've contacted them, but no response yet.

RedDog382

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

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

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

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

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

-Greg

ApachePete

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

GregP

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