928Myles

Following the fracture of my alarm equipped hatch latch body I started to investigate getting an alternative one made after I had difficulty obtaining a second-hand replacement.

I have had a firm investigate the following options with only the first being cost - effective:
1 - Cast a replacement body based on the original that incorporates some strengthening modifications and is of a better material.
2 - CNC a replica out of a solid block of a suitable material.
3 - 3D print a metal replica using laser sintering technology.

Before I leap in and get a batch made I would like to see if there is a need / desire out there for an alternative to the factory part.

PLEASE NOTE THAT IT IS MY INTENT TO SUPPLY THE BODY ONLY AND THAT THE LATCH MECHANISM, LOCK AND COVER PLATE BE TRANSFERRED FROM YOUR EXISTING LATCH BODY.

If demand warrants it I intend to offer these through interested established vendors (if any).

A quick look on a vendors site shows that stock non-alarm units are over $140- and (non-keyed to VIN) alarm units are over $350-

Myles
(PS I have run this past a moderator to ensure no breach of forum rules has taken place).

Bilal928S4

My vote. Thanks for doing this.

DKWalser

Myles - My vote (have no need) is based on how things currently stand. On that basis, I also have no need for a new radiator. Since no one knows what tomorrow may bring, I'm always in favor of new sources for parts.

Good luck!

928Myles

Bump

joejoe

Actually for a new piece I would pay more. I change my vote from up to 200 to up to 250.

Nicole

Most owners of later model 928s could use this part - even though not everybody might be aware of it.

What's critical is that it is made to last better than the stock part - nobody wants to plunk down a few hundred $$$s only to see it break again after a short time.

928Myles

I agree Nicole.
There is a reasonable amount of 'room' to strengthen the existing design within its outer bounds and useing a better aluminium alloy will certainly help here too. The original has a VERY low melting point and is quite brittle.

Myles

danglerb

I'm not sure what the part is you are thinking of making, or what breaks. So hard to answer.

928Myles

The part I am trying to make is the one that attaches to the hatch and contains the lock and latch. It protrudes down from the hatch and slots into the receiver that the release mechanism operates.

I have heard of two main breakage points for these - across the 'base' and on the side of the protruding piece.

Myles

MjRocket

Even though I'm aware of which part you are trying to produce, it may be of benefit for you to post up a few pics for others who aren't quite sure.

A visule aid so to speak.

Randy V

+1

928Myles

Here are a couple of photo's I sent to the engineer who currently has the part. Hope this helps

928Myles

Bump

928Myles

bump

Landseer

Originals are either failed or about to fail.
So, no question about the need.
The question is what do you expect to sell them for?