Robert Dyck
Enthusiast
The front latches on my hard top have become loose. Seems like they need to be replaced.
Anyone have this problem?
Anyone have this problem?
02 RT Hard Top Front Latches
- Thread starter Robert Dyck
- Start date
AG98RT10
Viper Owner
Hmmm... One of mine is loose, feels like the spring that pushes back against the latch is missing. When I called Parts Rack about it, Jon B said there's no hardware available to fix this, iirc. Appreciate info on obtaining replacement latch hardware and installation, if you have any luck.
I had this problem with the front latches of my hard top only one year after owning it. You can fix it quite easily yourself. Lean the hard top up on a wall. remove the anchoring screws (2 of them) on each side. Do one side at a time.
After removing one (takes like 15 seconds), you'll notice that the latch is held in place by a bolt/thread mechanism that constantly loosens (poorly designed).
You need to buy heavy duty thread-locker (also known as "lock-tite"). its a compound that comes in a small toothpaste like container(costs about 3-4 dollars). Apply the thread-locker to the threading that holds the latch in place and tighten the bolt onto it snug. You have to wait about a day to let it fully dry. When you initially tighten it make sure that the latch moves with a little bit of resistance. After a day, screw the unit back onto the hardtop. then do the other side. Do one at a time since the two latch systems look very similar and can easily be confused and placed onto the wrong side.
this should be a permanent fix. I'm not very handy with tools and I found it very easy to do myself. Any questions, contact me at [email protected]
After removing one (takes like 15 seconds), you'll notice that the latch is held in place by a bolt/thread mechanism that constantly loosens (poorly designed).
You need to buy heavy duty thread-locker (also known as "lock-tite"). its a compound that comes in a small toothpaste like container(costs about 3-4 dollars). Apply the thread-locker to the threading that holds the latch in place and tighten the bolt onto it snug. You have to wait about a day to let it fully dry. When you initially tighten it make sure that the latch moves with a little bit of resistance. After a day, screw the unit back onto the hardtop. then do the other side. Do one at a time since the two latch systems look very similar and can easily be confused and placed onto the wrong side.
this should be a permanent fix. I'm not very handy with tools and I found it very easy to do myself. Any questions, contact me at [email protected]
AJT
Enthusiast
Be careful, there are little springs in there that will pop out. I had mine replaced 2 weeks after I got my new RT. Dealer said it would have cost about $ 400.00 If I had to pay for it. That made the extended warranty a easy choice.
Andy
Andy
DodgeViper01
Enthusiast
Happens to me all the time. I have lost the ball bearing in the front latches three times. My latches in total must have been replaced 5 or 6 times already in two years. I am trying to work on getting a new hardtop through warranty because this is just too much work.
AJT
Enthusiast
I duct taped the latches closed! Fix anyting with a roll of duct tape.
Robert Dyck
Enthusiast
Thank you all for the responses.
Red Heat: I've sent you an e-mail.
Thanks again! When I get to the bottom of the problem, I'll post again.
Red Heat: I've sent you an e-mail.
Thanks again! When I get to the bottom of the problem, I'll post again.
DodgeViper01
Enthusiast
Just got my car back from getting the latches done. Only had the front to replaced and they were $600.00. Lucky I have a warranty!
DodgeViper01
Enthusiast
Still having a ratling problem so they are now going to replace the two rears. Gee I hate to see that bill too.
