Storage box latches

WilliamA

I got tired of the cheesy rubber latch popping off daily with the resulting lid pop up. For a few bucks, I added these box latches. Easy-peasy.

I put two on as they come in packages of two. One on each side about 15" in from the rear edge of the box lid. I used 3/16" pop-rivets to put them on. Works great and now allows a way to lock the box if I so desire.

WilliamA

BBsGarage

Simple upgrade.

SueBHunny

I may have to do something like that on my T@G. My latch has never worked. It hasn't been a problem, but it still makes me nervous.

Michigan_Mike

I've never had any issues with the rubber bungee style latch. But do like the metal latch mod you did. Nice!

Otis_60

I went a different direction to get a better latch. I got a whole new container with locking latches.

Michigan_Mike

@Otis_60 said:
I went a different direction to get a better latch. I got a whole new container with locking latches.

Did you remove the front tub?

ontheroad

don't mind the latch but since it can look like it's closed when it's open (vertical position) I always give it a lift to make sure...drives hubby crazy...since he's the one that locks it...

Otis_60

Hi Mike,
Yes I did. I would post a pic, but I haven't quite figured that one out yet.

Otis_60

Here is a pic of my new locking latches. You have to look real close.

Michigan_Mike

Nice setup Otis! have you traveled very far with the bikes on top of the trailer? If you have a wet cell battery inside that storage box you might want to consider installing some vents on the sides as batteries do give off gas and could explode.

Otis_60

Half a step ahead of you Mike. I installed the vent on the back side so as to minimize the likelihood of water intrusion.

ElPhoenix

@Otis_60 I know this post is a bit older, but do you have pictures of the setup inside your tongue box? I'm mostly trying to determine how to move and mount the propane regulator and power cables from the battery. Your setup looks amazing!

Otis_60

@ElPhoenix said:
@Otis_60 I know this post is a bit older, but do you have pictures of the setup inside your tongue box? I'm mostly trying to determine how to move and mount the propane regulator and power cables from the battery. Your setup looks amazing!

Sorry, no pics. But what I did was unmount the regulator from the front of the trailer and fill the holes with sealant and put the screws back in.

I used a hole saw to put holes in the new box to feed the electrical and LP gas hose through. VERY IMPORTANT - file any burrs off the holes and put a rubber grommet in the hole to prevent chaffing of the lines.

I mounted the LP tank on the starboard (passenger) side of the box and the battery/solar connector/cutoff switch on the port (drivers) side.

Frogger

@WilliamA--what length pop rivets for the latches, wondering about clearance on the backside of the lid? Never used 'em, but I think my neighbor has the tool, like the latch idea...thanks

WilliamA

@Frogger said:
@WilliamA--what length pop rivets for the latches, wondering about clearance on the backside of the lid? Never used 'em, but I think my neighbor has the tool, like the latch idea...thanks

I was concerned about the poprivets snagging on the lid, but that hasn't been the case. I'm using poprivets in 3/16" X 1/2". That's the size I use for just about everything. If the rivets are too long, after installing them, just take a file or grinder and knock off the end. You can safely trim an installed poprivet down to the "BB" (small round ball end) inside the rivet. I left mine "wild" and they don't snag.

When I initially installed them, I thought it might be a bit much. Now that they've been on there for awhile, I actually like them very much. They are not too tight, but still pull the lid down firmly to the gasket and keep it snug. They also prevent vibration and rattling that I had experienced with the lid before.

WilliamA

Bobrocks

Here is my solution to this issue. I can lock the lid when away and then unlock it when traveling. Nuts are installed with red loctite. Picked these up at ace hardware.

GigHarborTom

Bobrocks.. Good idea, Should have thought of that. I used on the suicide doors of the big shiny unit that went away. Might have one in my drawers of goodies out in the garage.

lipcio

Loctite is a good idea but I would also suggest to use some type of lock washers (if they're not there yet).