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Bugeye bonnet latch

Rut

Obi Wan
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I'm trying to locate a bonnet latch for a front tilt set up. I've seen the ones used on replaca Cobras, but have not found what I'm looking for. I would like a latch that mounts on the firewall and is cable or remotely operated. Has anyone installed or seen these?
Thanks, Rut
 
It will require some fabrication, but you can go to the junkyard to find some cable operated clasps and pins. Or ... check out some of the streetrod catalogs for offerings.
 
Trevor,
I checked out the street rod catalogs and didn't see what I wanted, but will keep looking. The one on the FF Cobra looked perfect and I could hide the bonnet release under the dash, but I can't find it on their site. Does anyone have a BE that's done this way?
Thanks, Rut
 
Salvage the latch setup off a spridget. I've seen it done and it works quite well. Just a little fab work.

Kurt.
 
I used to have a picture someone set up with dual latches mounted on the hinges. That's the ideal thing but I went with McMaster Carr SS Draw Latches. They are adjustable, have a lock tab, mount with a couple of short sheet metal screws and you're in business. It works for Bugsy my '68 with a BE Bonnet.
 
Trevor,
I found those latches in my web search and it's not what I'm looking for. The one on the FF Cobra mounted on the firewall and the bonnet had a U shaped piece the fit in the latch. The U shaped piece mounted to a bracket that was welded to the bonnet and was easily removable. The latch itself was slotted and mounted with 4 bolts with a release pull that went thru the firewall. Pretty neat set up.
Thanks, Rut
 
Try the FF Site Rut. Might be available directly from them.
 
OK, I know what you are looking for. Let me look.
 
Trevor,
Thanks for looking and I'll give FF a call. They don't have it on their site, but I'm sure they have them for sale. I should just buy a FF Cobra and convince my wife that it's the only place they're available...I really like their cars!
Rut
 
It seems to me that they are simply bear claw latches with u-shaped strikers. I'm not seeing anything pre-made, but it would seem simple to fab up. Honestly, I'd go to the junkyard and look at some hatchback and SUVs. Those are plentiful and cheap and easy to remove.
 
Trevor Jessie said:
It seems to me that they are simply bear claw latches with u-shaped strikers. I'm not seeing anything pre-made, but it would seem simple to fab up. Honestly, I'd go to the junkyard and look at some hatchback and SUVs. Those are plentiful and cheap and easy to remove.


I like the way you think, Trevor! I'm a founding member of the 'We Cheeeep' club!

Kurt.
 
I installed some midget trunk latches and I made some pins on the bonnet all hidden in latches from the foot wells
 
How about pics?
 
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