Trunk Lock repair manual

[Yennes]

Hi FBBO,

I recently restored the trunk lock latch for a 1968-70 B-Body and possibly other models as well. I wanted to share the process in case someone finds it useful in the future.

I completely disassembled the latch, zinc-plated the steel parts, and reassembled everything. However, keep in mind that the piece where the bar will be connected to the lock is made of aluminum and cannot be zinc-plated. Instead, I sandblasted that part, and it turned out great.

If you have questions do not mind to ask. I can provide the measurements of the rivets as well.

Below are some pictures showing how the latch is reassembled:

 

[gkent]

How do you do the rivets ??

 

[Yennes]

How do you do the rivets ??

I created a technical drawing of the original rivets, capturing as many of the original measurements as possible. I then gave the drawing to a friend, who machined them on a lathe for me.

 

[Yennes]

Here are the old and new rivets.

 

[gkent]

How do you peen them in place?

 

[Yennes]

How do you peen them in place?

I took a chisel, sharpened it on a grinding belt, held it against the rivet, and struck it with a hammer. I hit each notch twice, and everything was secure. Of course, you also need to fix the part in place.