Replacing spin latches on windscreen window/door (solved)

echandler1971

It finally happened, the wind blew my windscreen door shut, destroying the remaining plastic spin latch. I found the same latches on Amazon, but I’m wondering how I deal with the rivets that these old latches were attached to and how to go about attaching these new ones. Do I need to buy a pop rivet gun or can I use a screw?

YYZRC

I drilled them out and used screws on my former boat. 

Ian

They are stainless and so will be a tough drill but can be done carefully, don’t slip! I got my replacements from TaylorMade and they provided the SS rivets. 

YYZRC

I would remove that side of the frame from the glass. It’s just held in with two Phillips screws. 

I also don’t understand why they used SS rivets on an aluminum frame. 

SS rivets require a special rivet tool as well. 

echandler1971

YYZRC said:

I would remove that side of the frame from the glass. It’s just held in with two Phillips screws. 

I also don’t understand why they used SS rivets on an aluminum frame. 

SS rivets require a special rivet tool as well. 

I'm kinda worried I would mess up the glazing if I pull off that section. I think I'll angle grind off the rivet nubs, drill them out, tap, and use screws as you said. One of the latches has been broken since before I owned the boat, so it was definitely time to do something. Also, the weather stripping on the door is nearly disintegrating, so may as well do an overhaul.

I ordered the latches today and they arrive tomorrow - Amazon is great.

Ian

I used a regular rivet gun without issue, as long as its not a cheapie that will break before the pin does.

echandler1971

Ian said:

I used a regular rivet gun without issue, as long as its not a cheapie that will break before the pin does.

Ok, I got a Widowmaker 2000 rivet gun from Harbor Freight and ordered some 3/16 x 1/2" barrel rivets on Amazon. I also got 3/16 x 5/8 and 3/16 x 3/4 just to cover all bases. I'll post pics when I'm done.

echandler1971

1. Grind off top of rivet
2. Hammer rest of it into window - carefully
3. Drill out with 3/16” bit
4. Use (in this case) 3/16” x 5/8” rivet

Windshield Double Latch Nylon https://a.co/d/eNedQ66

its on there tight. Did both of them. 

echandler1971

I also redid the weather stripping and cleaned up the metal. 

Spyderweb

Nice job!  Did you go stainless or aluminum rivets?

echandler1971

Spyderweb said:

Nice job!  Did you go stainless or aluminum rivets?

Aluminum, only because the window frame is. I have plenty more rivets if they corrode out.