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Does this position look right? I'm double checking before I start cutting. In the directions picture you can't see the bottom 2 screw holes for original latch.
I just installed the Altman locks in my pickup I'm working on and they are not without problems. Some guys like to weld in the plates, I didn't and installed to their instructions. The locks interfere with the window channel and prevent you from unlocking the door with the key because there is too much drag against the window channel. What I did was made up a new plate that replaces the one in the kit to eliminate the countersunk holes that the bear claws are fastened through and also eliminate the 1/8" spacer. This allows more room for the window channel. I was going to start another thread on this subject because I don't think there was enough thought put into these latches for the 53-56 F-100's.
By far the original door latches are a better design especially the function. I bought the Altmans because they were supposed to be an upgrade to latches that always popped open when hitting bumps and such but wonder if the original latches only started doing that after they were worn with age.
With the Altman locks I see disadvantages because you can't lock the doors from the inside like you could with the originals, you can only lock or unlock the door with the use of the key, a real pain in the butt if you stop to pick someone up because you have to go out and walk to the other side to open it. I purchased the power lock kit which hasn't been installed yet because I'm currently working on my suspension.
Rezvani's Latest Post-Apocalyptic Monster Is a Ford F-150 Raptor Underneath
Slideshow: Called the Fortress, the 850-horsepower pickup combines Raptor underpinnings with military-inspired features, survival equipment, and a starting price of $285,000.