Is anyone else having this problem with their standard latches?

[kevinmrowland]

I just got a note from a customer with the pics below. They show hairline cracks along the stress points of the standard latch.

I haven't had any issues like this yet but I went and checked the ones in my truck and one of them has a hairline crack in a similar location.
I'll upload a picture of the crack on mine later.

It looks like over time the latch body on these is just not holding up.
This is incredibly disappointing for me and I really need to hear whether anyone else is running into the same thing.

My first thought is that I will probably make the stainless latches the only available option from now on. This is less than ideal due to how expensive they are, but they are the only thing that has been 100% trouble free.


Take a look at your latches and chime in so we can see what the extent of the damage is.
KR

 

[julstirn]

Mine went further then cracking it broke. Heres pic, was just a crack for a couple days then poof, I figured it was just from sliding junk in and out. It is still working just not as pretty. The right one broke, left one is fine. Still love the tailgate!

 

[kevinmrowland]

Ummmmmm, ya got to tell me about this stuff!

Even if it was from sliding stuff over the latch, that's what tailgates are for, the latches need to stand up to it as well.


Like with all my stuff, fully guaranteed, I can send you some more of the same latches or I would ask you to cover the difference between the originals and the stainless ones and I can send you a set of those.

This sucks. and it's going to hurt...

 

[julstirn]

im not worried about it! Either a harder more durable plastic or a metal is the way to go. I beat my 80, if it was clean and pretty id be bothered by the fact but im not. Save the money and keep making cool stuff!

 

[kevinmrowland]

Well I'm worried about it!
Not only does it look like crap, it's not up to snuff structurally.


You should be able to beat the hell out of the tailgate and it should get scratched and dented, but should still function properly.

The alternative latch is completely made of stainless:

 

[OyajiJon]

My first thought is that I will probably make the stainless latches the only available option from now on. This is less than ideal due to how expensive they are, but they are the only thing that has been 100% trouble free.

I know this thread is not about the black recessed latches, but this comment sounds like they have issues. Personally, I love my hatch and have no problems with it, but I'm curious what was meant by this.

Thanks for a GREAT product and SUPERB customer service, Kevin!

-Jon

 

[kevinmrowland]

Hey Jon, good to hear from you.
The cam latches have been a good option. there was a problem with the earlier ones that I've been able to fix just fine, detailed here:
https://forum.ih8mud.com/wagongear/327400-cam-latch-recall-update-really.html

I think that was before I did your latches though?
The cams are just not a very popular latch which is the only reason I worded my comment above as I did.
Without an integrated pull ring they are not a perfect solution for the tailgate lid but they are great on the side panels. And I think they look good as well.

 

[OyajiJon]

Hey Kevin, I don't have my truck with me, but I think mine have the button head screws. I'll take a peek tomorrow when I get back to it. As I said above, I'm perfectly happy with mine. That said, I still want a set of your side panels, but I've been sidetracked a bit. Once you get settled in Eugene, I'll be in touch. Hell, I may even take a drive up your way.

Thanks for the info!

 

[kevinmrowland]

Come on up for a visit! We will only be 10.5 hours away once we get out there.
Pretty sure I put the bolts in your latch, think that was after I figured that problem out. Easy to change if not.


For the standard latches, here is a shot of the damage to mine, certainly no where near as bad as the others posted here, I had to go looking for it.

 

[Darasick]

Yup I checked mine yesterday and the right side latch has the crack! I can post a picture when I get a chance if you would like

 

[kevinmrowland]

That really stinks Justin, your lid is quite new compared to the others posted here.
Definitely post up a photo if you can so we can see what the extent of the damages are.

As with the others, I'll credit the cost of your latches towards the stainless version, you'll just have to send the damaged ones back to me.