Installing a bear claw latch on a classic truck is a popular upgrade among automotive restoration enthusiasts. These latches offer improved durability, aesthetics, and functionality compared to original factory latches. The provided source material details a step-by-step installation process using an Altman Easy Latch kit and Autoloc components, offering a comprehensive approach to modernizing door closure systems in vintage vehicles. This article will guide users through the key components, tools, and procedures involved in a bear claw latch installation based on the documentation.
Overview of the Bear Claw Latch System
The bear claw latch system is a mechanical door closure mechanism designed for classic trucks. It replaces the original factory latches with a more robust and reliable alternative. The installation process involves removing the original door components, preparing the door for the new latch, and securing the new system using provided hardware.
The Altman Easy Latch kit includes all the necessary components for a complete installation. These include:
- Bear claw latches with case-hardened internal claws and black-oxide coating
- Optional polished stainless steel jamb plates
- Striker plates with stainless steel striker bolts
- Installation hardware, including bolts, washers, and lock washers
- Templates for accurate cutting and alignment
- Detailed instructions
The Autoloc power bear claw latch kit offers a similar set of components, including:
- Bear claw latches with dual claws and an extra-large striker bolt
- Steel mounting plates with stamped screw holes and machine-cut latch openings
- Floating mounting pin boss for easy alignment
- Power solenoids for automated door operation
- Manual or power latches for customizable installation
Both kits are designed for at-home installation and are compatible with a range of vintage trucks, including Ford and Chevrolet models from the 1940s to the 1950s.
Preparing for Installation
Before beginning the installation, it is essential to gather all the required tools and materials. The source material lists several tools used during the process, including:
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Air-driven hacksaw
- Flat file
- Angle grinder with 50-grit disc
- Hammer and center punch
- Drill with 17/64-inch and 3/8-inch bits
- Safety glasses
- Masking tape
- Felt-tip marker
The first step in the installation is removing the interior and exterior components of the door. This includes the window riser handle, inner door handle, door panel, and inner door access plate. The window channel support and window riser mechanism must also be removed to gain access to the door's internal workings. Once the door glass is removed, the door is ready for the next phase of the installation.
Cutting and Preparing the Latch Opening
The next step involves preparing the door for the new latch by cutting the necessary opening. The provided template is used to mark the area to be cut. This template is masked with tape and traced with a felt-tip marker to ensure accuracy. The user is advised to "measure twice and cut once" to avoid errors during this critical phase.
Using an air-driven hacksaw, the user makes a pilot hole and carefully cuts out the marked area. After cutting, the area is deburred using a flat file and a small angle grinder with a 50-grit disc. This step ensures a smooth surface for the new jamb plate and latch installation.
Installing the Jamb Plate and Latch
Once the opening is complete, the stainless steel jamb plate is secured in place using the provided hardware. A 17/64-inch drill bit is used to create the mounting points, and the user is advised to use a hammer and center punch to align the holes before drilling. The jamb plate is then bolted in place using the supplied Allen head hardware, lock washers, and bolts. The plate is described as being "perfectly balanced" in its installation to the door.
After the jamb plate is secured, the bear claw rotary claw latch is installed using the provided Allen head hardware and a small amount of red Loctite to ensure secure fastening. The latch is described as being "easy to install" and "perfectly balanced" in its operation.
Reconnecting the Door Linkage
Once the jamb plate and latch are in place, the door pull linkage is reconnected to the new latch. This step ensures that the door operates smoothly and functions as intended. The source material notes that the original linkage is compatible with the new system, allowing for a straightforward reconnection.
The stock lock cylinder is also modified to work with the new latch. Using a small screwdriver, the spring is depressed, and the stock pin is removed. The new Easy Latch cylinder pin is then inserted, and the lock cylinder is repositioned and secured.
Installing the New Striker Plate
The final step in the installation involves replacing the original striker plate with the new one included in the kit. The original striker plate is removed using a Phillips head screwdriver, and the area is cleaned and prepared for the new installation. The new striker plate, complete with a stainless steel striker bolt, is test-fitted to ensure proper operation. In some cases, an adjustment washer may be required to ensure the correct alignment.
The completed installation results in a door system that is not only visually improved but also functionally enhanced. The source material describes the installation as "a snap" and notes that the system should perform flawlessly for years.
Considerations for Different Applications
The Altman and Autoloc kits are designed for a range of classic trucks, including:
- Ford trucks from 1940–1947, 1948–1952, and 1953–1956
- Chevrolet trucks from 1947–1951, 1952–1954, and 1955–1959
Both kits are compatible with either stock exterior door handles or shaved handles, offering flexibility for different restoration styles. For users seeking a handleless design, the Autoloc kit includes a 13-pound two-wire hook-up actuator capable of handling most shaved door handle applications.
The source material also highlights the importance of assessing the condition of the door and its components before beginning the installation. It notes that "one will soon find out they have only peeled back the first of the onion's layers and have overlooked an abundance of problems." This emphasizes the need for a thorough inspection and planning before starting the project.
Maintenance and Long-Term Performance
While the source material does not provide specific maintenance recommendations, it is reasonable to assume that regular inspection and lubrication of the moving parts will help extend the life of the bear claw latch system. Users are advised to test the door operation periodically to ensure that the latch continues to function smoothly.
The use of red Loctite on the bolts during installation suggests that the hardware is intended to remain in place without loosening over time. However, users should be aware that extreme temperature fluctuations or heavy use may require periodic tightening of the bolts.
Conclusion
The bear claw latch installation process described in the source material is a comprehensive and detailed approach to modernizing the door closure system of a classic truck. By following the steps outlined in the Altman and Autoloc kits, users can achieve a durable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing upgrade to their vehicle's doors.
The key components of the installation include removing the original door components, cutting and preparing the latch opening, installing the jamb plate and latch, reconnecting the door linkage, and replacing the striker plate. The use of proper tools and attention to detail ensures a successful installation that will provide years of reliable performance.
For users looking to restore or enhance the functionality of their classic trucks, the bear claw latch system offers a viable and effective solution. The availability of both manual and power options, as well as compatibility with various truck models, makes it a versatile choice for a wide range of restoration projects.