C3 Reproduction hood latches

[Bill L.]

How do they compare to originals?


Thank!

[Alan S.]

Re: C3 Reproduction hood latches

Hi Bill,
Are you thinking of replacing in order to get the 'fresh' plating?
If so, the phosphate is pretty easy to do, and the pin, retainer, spring, can be re-plated or bought new.
Regards,
Alan

[Tom R.]

Re: C3 Reproduction hood latches

If so, the phosphate is pretty easy to do, and the pin, retainer, spring, can be re-plated or bought new.

I have to remember here I'm talking 78 and you're talking 71 when the latches where mounted on the backside of the hood (think I got that right). Was your latch zinc or cad plated? Is that what your calling a retainer?

[Alan S.]

Re: C3 Reproduction hood latches

Hi Tom,
I'm really only familiar with my 71 which of course has the short hood compared to your 78.
On my car the male portion of the latch mounted on the cowl had a very dark gray phosphated base, a natural 'probe', a dark, natural spring, and a cadmium plated cup/retainer that locked the threaded probe to the base and also was the seat for the spring.
The female portion of the latch was mounted on the hood, was dark gray phosphate and it's one movable part 'grabbed' and retained the probe.
Regards,
Alan

[Patrick H.]

Re: C3 Reproduction hood latches

My thought, upon reading the post, is that original latches are not difficult to find nor are they difficult to restore or have restored. It's a part that I'd think "Why?" when it comes to purchasing a reproduction.

But, that's just my thought on it.

Patrick

[Bill L.]

Re: C3 Reproduction hood latches

I bought the 70 with chrome latches, hinges, and hood support. I have nice hinges and a hood support.

Based on what is being said I will look for a set of latches that is not pitted and restore them.

Do you guys send yours out for plating (Phosphating) or do you do it at home? I have read posts where you can purchase the chemicals to do it at home.


Thanks!!!

[Patrick H.]

Re: C3 Reproduction hood latches

I bought the 70 with chrome latches, hinges, and hood support. I have nice hinges and a hood support.

Based on what is being said I will look for a set of latches that is not pitted and restore them.

Do you guys send yours out for plating (Phosphating) or do you do it at home? I have read posts where you can purchase the chemicals to do it at home.


Thanks!!!

I do it at home.

If you check the Archives here, others have used electricity to reverse-plate (remove) the chrome from parts at home. Or, you could have a plater do it, and then phosphate them yourself.

I've used manganese (black) phosphate from a couple of different sources and had good results. Look for "parkerizing" and you can find chemicals and instructions.

Patrick