Hardware Reccomendations

[EricG]

Hi folks - I've been poking around the web for hardware for my build and thought I'd get some opinions here.

Hinges: Probably going with the lift-off hinges from McMaster-Carr for the lid & tailgate

Lid Toggle clamps: Haven't really found one that I like yet. Looking for something like this, but with provision for a padlock.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007QRB3P6/?tag=ihco-20

Gas springs for lid - probably go with mcmaster here.

Locking Tailgate Paddle Latches: Found lots of these, but not much information or reviews. Which ones do you guys like? I want something that's push-to-close and want to be able to adjust to maintain a good seal against the weatherstripping.

Weatherstripping for lid & tailgate - What has worked well for you guys here? Supplier?

 

[Dell]

Weatherstripping for lid & tailgate - What has worked well for you guys here? Supplier?

I use 3M rubber weather strip # 08650 (automotive bulb type)
It is a self sticky tape type... holds really well even to paint.

^ For the top anyhow... as I have no tailgate.

Keep in mind... my lid is semi-floating design...
and this bulb seal requires about 3/8" gap
to allow for compression of the seal.
I don't believe it can compress more then 1/4"
Tho' one wouldn't want the seal compressed that tight.

More can be read about muh build by looking Here
~or in the links of muh user sig~

How that looks installed on muh lid...



http://i426.photobucket.com/albums/pp344/TTORADell/M100 trailer/seal05.jpg

http://i426.photobucket.com/albums/pp344/TTORADell/M100 trailer/seal04.jpg

http://i426.photobucket.com/albums/pp344/TTORADell/M100 trailer/seal03.jpg

http://i426.photobucket.com/albums/pp344/TTORADell/M100 trailer/lidseal06.jpg

http://i426.photobucket.com/albums/pp344/TTORADell/M100 trailer/lidseal01.jpg

 

[EricG]

Nice - what can you tell me about those hinges? Why did you go with that kind of hinge, as compared to the weld-on bullet or lift-off style that I've seen in alot of builds? I'll take a look at your build thread tonight.

Thanks!

 

[TrekboxX]

Have a look at the Allegis corp latches. Good quality. Making an adjustable striker may be easier than finding the perfect adjustable latch, imo.

 

[EricG]

Have a look at the Allegis corp latches. Good quality. Making an adjustable striker may be easier than finding the perfect adjustable latch, imo.

Looks like some nice stuff - only found their corporate page though. Do they sell retail?

 

[TrekboxX]

I'm pretty sure I just called them direct. Check out the Vector T handle latch. It's nice. Southco may also sell them.

 

[HesterFab]

I like Southco for lathes. They make a million different styles which is nice. I think you have to go through a distributor but I'm sure you can find one locally. The local distributor here is so excited about latches I usually just go down there with a picture of my projects and he'll go in the back and show me my different options. I have better luck doing that instead of ordering latches online.

As for the gas struts. I used McMaster# 4138T63 100 lb struts. They work great for me.

 

[Rubiconcruiser]

Reid Supply in Michigan can supply all your latch and hinge desires, ask for Tim Devrendt, he will fix you up. Good guy

 

[bmw635]

Trimlokcom has a wide variety of seals to fit your need.

 

[REZARF]

De-sta-co has the latches you need.

 

[ntsqd]

While we're at it, Austin Hardware is another good source for hinges, latches, slides, etc., etc., etc.