Rear Hatch Latch question

[Buford T. JuSStice]

Hey guys, just got done doing the rear hatch seal, put new clips in and painted the tailgate cover, painted the chrome around the glass as well as the handle semi-gloss black, and put new pistons on... but I've got a question...

Is there any way to adjust the latch in the back so there isn't as much "play" in the glass? Like, a way to bring it in a little more tightly so it doesn't jiggle when it's closed.

 

[oldsmobile joe]

If ithe latch doesn't have enough adjustment, you may have to shim it.

 

[ssn696]

If there is a groove worn in it, you can take the glass latch off the car and build it back up with a welder, then file to shape. I had to do that.

 

[Longroof79]

If there is a groove work in it, you can take the glass latch off the car and build it back up with a welder, then file to shape. I had to do that.

I agree with your solution, Mr. Quinn.
There's no adjustment for the glass hatch, but it's common that the catch becomes (worn) grooved, thereby causing the glass to become loose.

 

[Buford T. JuSStice]

I wonder if an old modeler's trick might work... super glue and baking soda. Drop a bit of super glue on a surface, and then sprinkle some baking soda on it, and you've got something that bonds pretty strongly. It's not as strong as steel, but it won't wear down parts either, and I can sand it down easily for adjustment.

 

[5spdCab]

I wonder if an old modeler's trick might work... super glue and baking soda. Drop a bit of super glue on a surface, and then sprinkle some baking soda on it, and you've got something that bonds pretty strongly. It's not as strong as steel, but it won't wear down parts either, and I can sand it down easily for adjustment.

I had never heard that one before. I guess I haven't built enough models. Sounds like a good informative solution.

 

[Buford T. JuSStice]

I had never heard that one before. I guess I haven't built enough models. Sounds like a good informative solution.

It works on plastic, but I'm not sure how it'll work on metal surfaces, let alone chrome metal surfaces so if it works I'll post it here!

 

[oldsmobile joe]

wrap with duct tape, it will last longer.

 

[Buford T. JuSStice]

How's that old saying go again?

Oh, right. If it looks stupid, but it works, then it ain't stupid!

Tried this out, and so far it works pretty good. Glass is held nice and tight against the seal, and it doesn't wiggle nearly as much. There's still a little bit, but that has nothing to do with any gap between the latch and the striker, rather it's just play in the latch itself. I'm happy.

 

[Longroof79]

Hey, if it eliminates the problem and makes you happy, then mission accomplished.
I've actually done a similar fix on my Foxbody Capri's hatch latch. A short piece of hose and a few small tie-raps.