72 Blazer--rear hatch latch dimensions

[HuntUSMC]

Does any one have a 72 blazer rear hatch latch accessible that they could measure?

I've been searching for a rear hatch latch for sometime (I don't frequent the club enough to get in line first when one does become available). I have access to a machine shop and CNC machine and I'm going to take a crack at fabricating one. (I've already purchased a T-handle, round sleeve with square center, and necessary springs.)
Also my rear hatch needs some fiberglass work so I should be able to make small adjustments as necessary...in both the metal latch or fiberglass. Ideally I'd like to get some preliminary measurements pictures to accompany the image below.

Thanks in advance! Happy New Year!

[robs71k5]

I have the shaft pieces with the square hole already machined. I bought them online but can't remember the site at this moment. I'm just waiting for my lathe to get set up again as I had the same idea as you but got caught up I'm moving and not being set up to turn them down to size. I will try to find the site and post it for you as the square shaft might be tough to machine out .

[Senorx]

Originally Posted by robs71k5

I have the shaft pieces with the square hole already machined. I bought them online but can't remember the site at this moment. I'm just waiting for my lathe to get set up again as I had the same idea as you but got caught up I'm moving and not being set up to turn them down to size. I will try to find the site and post it for you as the square shaft might be tough to machine out .

Rob, I PMd you awhile back about a hatch issue. Never heard back. PM me when you get a spare minute. Thanks.

[Tom Vogel]

HuntUSMC... are you a former marine?

[HuntUSMC]

Yes sir. (98-02 Camp Pendleton) Semper Fi

[1rippen6]

I see no one responded with dimensions do you still need them

[HuntUSMC]

Yes please! Any help is appreciated.

[1rippen6]

Here is the one I have let me know what measurements you want.

[HuntUSMC]

1rippen6,

Thanks so much for the help! I really appreciate it.

Please see the attached images. I tried to diagram the measurements to make it easier to translate.

[1rippen6]

Here are a couple pictures was hard to read on my phone will get the rest later tonight or tomorrow. I do have a plate, if you would have ask for measurements a week later I would have the other part I cut it off a handle because the spring was shoot. Will sell the plate for 17 shipped in a small flat rate box structurally should be fine. I will get measurements either way just wanted to offer you the plate.

[1rippen6]

What is your plan for the spring?

[HuntUSMC]

I can't remember the name of that type of spring but I found some HD ones with same diameter.

[1rippen6]

Originally Posted by HuntUSMC

I can't remember the name of that type of spring but I found some HD ones with same diameter.

Could you post a picture would like to see what it looks like?

[HuntUSMC]

Sorry I've been traveling for work the last couple of weeks. I'll try to find them soon to post them.

[1rippen6]

Originally Posted by HuntUSMC

Sorry I've been traveling for work the last couple of weeks. I'll try to find them soon to post them.

No problem I am in no hurry

[HuntUSMC]

Sorry for the delay...I looked and looked for these (in between my hectic travel schedule)...I forgot that I had sent them to my uncles machine shop to have as reference.

[1rippen6]

Nice that would be awesome if you can get something to work out.

[robs71k5]

Huntusmc looks like your on the right track but you will find out quickly that you need to find a piece of heavier wall pipe with .5 inch inside for you sleeve to fit into and machine the pipe diameter and a little "c" clip slot for the the retainer to hold the assembly onto the bracket . Then once I had the pipe turned down I planned to insert the square key stock inside the pipe with an egg shaped piece for the latch rod holes located and weld the three pieces together . I have completed mine with exception of welding it but haven't taken any pictures of it . I guess I should get some pictures online so people can get the gist of a simple fix . I think I might even be able to do it on a drill press if it came down to it .

[robs71k5]

HuntUSMC you might have some trouble if you simply put the lock ring into that square shaft stock . It's not big enough to fit into the other nos parts it mates up to . I turned down a heavy wall pipe to look like photo and the 1/2 inch square shaft stock you found fits into it perfectly. If you cut the square stock you will have enough to make two assembly"s and you only have to weld the ends . That way it looks like blazer hardware, talks like Blazer hardware and makes Blazer owners happy like Blazer hardware stuff does . I have a couple extra already turned down I could part with for my time and could make them available to others as well and hr labour plus shipping

[pound41]

I have never had to look for a replacement for mine but several summers of my youth spent working for a garage door company. That is what most of those components are springs that kick back or return.and the brackets. Garage door handle works as a hatch handle etc. Good luck

[1rippen6]

Just wondering if you ever finished this project?

[HuntUSMC]

I hope to make a lot of progress this winter. My project has been at a stand still as the metal fabricator had a mild stroke this summer.

(He's giving me a good deal on the work, I'm not in a hurry, and he could probably use the money for medical expenses.)

I'll definitely post some updates as soon as I can get started. Thanks!

[1rippen6]

I got this in the other day would you be interested in it or would you be interested in selling me a couple springs.

[HuntUSMC]

I appreciate the offer but I think I'll try my hand at the fabrication. Send me your mailing address and I'll just send you a couple...appreciate all of the measurements you posted.

[1rippen6]

Originally Posted by HuntUSMC

I appreciate the offer but I think I'll try my hand at the fabrication. Send me your mailing address and I'll just send you a couple...appreciate all of the measurements you posted.

PM'd my address Thanks Dwayne