Door latching

AMiller · #1 (**permalink**) 08-03-2007, 07:23 AM

I was looking over a SuperPerformance Cobra yesterday and other than for the fact that I would really like one of my own the one thing that stuck out about it to me was that you can shut the doors without manually pulling the latch. I will admitt I have never paid that much attention to my latches as far as workings but they work good and line up nice. I just dont think I can shut my doors without pulling the latch itself. Should I be able to?

I have not be able to touch my project since winter but if I hear you should be able to just push the doors shut I may have to free up some time and dig the cobra back out. This is really bothering me.

Thanks Guys,

Aaron

jerry w · #2 (**permalink**) 08-03-2007, 07:57 AM

Aaron,

If you have the door hardware form A & C you should be able to shut the door with out moving the door handle. I can.

Regards,

Roscoe · #3 (**permalink**) 08-03-2007, 08:44 AM

Both my door shut nicely without using the latch. Good solid sound.

Roscoe

PNJSNAK · #4 (**permalink**) 08-03-2007, 08:49 AM

AAron:
I agree with Jerry. Make sure the piece that is bolted to the body is square and properly lined up with the latch mechanism on the door. Make sure the edge of the striker lines up with the chamfer of the locking pin, so that the pin is moved out of the way when it contacts the striker.
I would say that I take the cover of the latch mechanism once a month or so and spray in a bit of lubricant to make sure the pins moves easily.
I use a silicone lubricant, if there is a better choice, someone here please let me know.
Jim

AMiller · #5 (**permalink**) 08-03-2007, 02:24 PM

Thanks for the info guys. You have now caused me to have to go tinker with the cobra again. I have been needing a good kick in the but.

Aaron

AMiller · #6 (**permalink**) 08-06-2007, 12:56 PM

Well, they actually work just fine. I never gave them a good hard shut before. The latch is very stiff. Seems like a lot of spring tension. Maybe some lubrication or just use will soften things up a little.

rokndad · #7 (**permalink**) 08-06-2007, 02:56 PM

The absolute best product I've used for strikers over the last 40+ years is a grease called LUBRIPLATE. I think it was originally developed either by or for Chevrolet for those areas like strikers that needed a non melting very slick and long lasting lube. Predates silicone lubricants. Use it very sparingly and it really frees up surfaces like door strikers. I've had the same small tube for 40 years and it's still going strong. I think I bought it at Pep Boys auto parts.