My left side, top, compression doghouse latch is broken (my mechanic broke it last time it was at the shop). I guess the spring broke, and the mechanic replaced it with some cotter pins, which are bending, and so the doghouse isn't sealed right and it's noisy....

Is it possible just to replace the spring, or should I replace the whole latch? It looks like its riveted on ... bust this off, and replace using bolts?

Does anyone have any advice for fixing this? Thanks.

It's a 95 e150 clubwagon

 

I'd replace the entire latch if you can find one at the dealership---can't be the first time just one of those have been damaged. Drilling out the riviets and replace with similar sized bolts and locking thread nuts should be good for quite a long while.

I've seen entire dog houses show up on eBay occasionally but unless its close shipping would be expensive. Maybe instead just replace both latches or all four? The gasket should be good or spray with silicone wet spray to renew its sealing ability--can't hurt.

 

hopefully you have a pick and pull boneyard somewhere closeby... just drill out the rivets and snag the latch. that being said, the latch is rivetted to fiberglass. so unles you have mad skills and a steady hand i would track down a rivet drill bit for the size rivet used on your doghouse (Marson 39100 Rivet Countersink Drill Bit) as it will pilot down the middle and the countersink will knock off the head ever-so-nicely. if that plan does not appeal, pm me and i will round one up fom my local boneyard for you. at least that way you will have the latch cheap and at worst can get a bud to do the drilling. esteyes@***.net