I have a 51' chevy truck and I really want door locks on both and I'm really thinking of going with either the AVS bear claw kit with keyless entry and or the Altman. I love the Altman because it is bolt on and truck specific and most importantly made in the USA. But it is 350 bucks just for the claw kit, then another 165 for the keyless entry with all the brackets and actuators etc. So I went on egay and found the AVS kit complete for $275, but I just am not sure how the quality is. Also their actuators look tiny and mount vertically it seems. The Altman and others seemed way bigger. So has anyone used this AVS kit or something similar. I just can't justify 500 bucks into shutting and locking my doors, when they kinda do that now. I just would like something a little better latching and have some locks, so I don't have to keep popping my vent window open to unlock the truck. http://www.shop.triquemfg.com/Altman-Easy-Latch-1947-1951-Chevy-Truck-AEL07.htm http://www.ebay.com/itm/AVS-Large-P...pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&vxp=mtr
I have the altman latches in my f100 and they are nice and where labelled as bolt on but you cut a chunk out of the door then a big plate wraps around the corner its not horrible but not a huge fan on the looks of it. If the door was perfect maybe but it had a few dings and the curves all did not match. Also could not retain the stock locks anymore. Not trying to turn you off but I wish I would have went with a different kit.
I will put a self-serving plug in here. I sell the bear claw type latches, and they are the best quality you will find. Made in USA and. You will need to do some work to install them, nothing is a direct bolt in. See link in my sig below. I do not have the install kits yet, but many vehicles you do not need them.
The large size is best if it will fit. It has two catch arms to grip the striker; whereas the small size has only one. It is a stronger latch. Usually the roadsters or 20's cars with thin doors need the smaller, but most else use the large size. Sorry to OP for the small hijack.
well, I was mainly trying to get some feedback on the AVS kit, the altman I would completely buy, but I can't justify the costs right now. I understand they all are going to need some mods, I'm not afraid of that at all. 38 chev, I have seen your latches. I'll def consider them, cause I'm all about the usa made stuff. I have other projects I'll be needing latches for too, so Ill def be getting a set from you at some point.
JEEZ, $350.oo??? I bought some VW Jetta 3 bearclaws at the wrecking yard for $5.oo a pair. They work great. Grab the striker too.
The Jalopy Journal
