Author Topic: Help...Corvette Convertible Top Latch (Read 9845 times)

jolinari · « **on:** October 14, 2007, 08:38:04 PM »

How do i go on about fixing it? as you can see, the right latch has been broken due to tear and wear...not bad since 1972 ;43

Anyway As you can see the latch is still in great condition and i would not like to replace it with an aftermarket one, Anyone has an idea how i can repair it, bear in mind that the metal surface where the latch is attached to, has two holes (painted in red) ;29

What is the best way? any advise?

many thanks ;42

Cameron 77C3 · « **Reply #1 on:** October 14, 2007, 08:53:17 PM »

Joe, not knowing a great deal about these but it looks like the spot welds have let go, yes?

If so can you get the backing plate off so you get the two parts spot welded back together? If that is the case I'm sure that the panel beater across from my factory, you know the guy, would spot them back together for you. That's if that's what wrong.

MADLT1 · « **Reply #2 on:** October 15, 2007, 05:31:14 PM »

maybe contact steve bussitil :x

RHD.68.l89 · « **Reply #3 on:** October 15, 2007, 09:05:22 PM »

I can finally see the detail! (At home with my own monitor)
Tee easy part is to respot or mig the bracket back to the frame, the bad news is you will probably have to remove the fabric top to get free access and avoid a flame out.:(

jolinari · « **Reply #4 on:** October 15, 2007, 09:16:10 PM »

Quote

Originally posted by Cameron 77C3
Joe, not knowing a great deal about these but it looks like the spot welds have let go, yes?

If so can you get the backing plate off so you get the two parts spot welded back together? If that is the case I'm sure that the panel beater across from my factory, you know the guy, would spot them back together for you. That's if that's what wrong.

Wont get to the car till the week-end...so I will have a look at it closely

jolinari · « **Reply #5 on:** October 15, 2007, 09:17:32 PM »

Quote

Originally posted by RHD.68.l89
the bad news is you will probably have to remove the fabric top to get free access and avoid a flame out.:(

that was my greatest fear...if thats the case i might as well change the top ;47

sirfixalot · « **Reply #6 on:** October 28, 2007, 09:01:22 PM »

Im guessing there are holes in the bracket which is highlighted in red where it has pulled out ? Grind the remains of the spot weld which is still attached to the other piece until flat then clamp both pieces back together & plug weld. I can do it if you can get it to me.

jolinari · « **Reply #7 on:** October 29, 2007, 09:00:03 PM »

Quote

Originally posted by sirfixalot
Im guessing there are holes in the bracket which is highlighted in red where it has pulled out ? Grind the remains of the spot weld which is still attached to the other piece until flat then clamp both pieces back together & plug weld. I can do it if you can get it to me.

thanks for the offer, where abouts are you located? Would you be able to u2u me ur number?

Many thanks!

sirfixalot · « **Reply #8 on:** October 29, 2007, 09:54:38 PM »

Illawong 0417473492