Projects 1939 Ford Custom Trunk Latch Alignment

I have a 1939 Ford that has a modified bottom mount trunk latch assembly. The bottom portion is OK, but the top portion containing the striker had to be completely redone as it was poorly designed and was constantly going out of alignment. I replaced the plate that held the striker and it is now solidly bolted down.

Question: How do I align the striker to the latch since I can't see it when the trunk is closed?

Moderators: I haven't posted in a long time, I think this is in the correct forum, if not, please move, thank you

 

Crawl in the trunk with a flashlight and have a good, trustworthy friend close the deck lid..

 

You could use a bit of modeling clay on one side or the other of the pieces and gently close the lid to see where the witness mark strikes and adjust accordingly. If no clay on hand, biscuit dough will work!

 

I tried that, had flashlight, couldn't see the latch. Modeling clay sounds like what I need, will pick some up at the Dollar Store next week.

Thanks

 

I'm still having problems. The trunk was shaved long ago and all the original parts and reference points were removed leaving a hole in the trunk lid where they used to be, I made up a plate to cover it. I am looking at the Bear Claw trunk latch/striker for a possible replacement for all of it. I need to attach the striker and allow it to swing down and catch the latch, but have no reference/direction on the installation such as how the latch and striker alignment and if there is any adjustment in the setup and how to make allowance for that.

In short, I'm kind of lost here and any information or photos would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance

 

Put an electric pull down latch from a Lincoln towncar

 

Maybe put a camera in the trunk and do a video of it getting closed to see what you are dealing with.

 

I would prefer to use something like the Bear Claw, in the end it would be less of a hassle since my trunk is fully upholstered