Glovebox needed to develop new catch system.
Discussion
Does anyone have a Griff glovebox they don't need, condition unimportant.
I need one for development of an idea for a better glovebox catch.
However, I may need to cut a big hole in the prototype to get measurements, make adjustments and a fitting template.
If it proves successful I will transfer it to my own glovebox and share the information.
For some time I have been looking for a suitable catch on a donor car. I think I may have found it.
A hole will need cutting in the face of the glovebox for a small black plastic handle with inset lock. This will be on show when finished.
I need one for development of an idea for a better glovebox catch.
However, I may need to cut a big hole in the prototype to get measurements, make adjustments and a fitting template.
If it proves successful I will transfer it to my own glovebox and share the information.
For some time I have been looking for a suitable catch on a donor car. I think I may have found it.
A hole will need cutting in the face of the glovebox for a small black plastic handle with inset lock. This will be on show when finished.
I've tried a few things, but the best so far is the B&Q loft hatch latch, better than the magnet type.
My problem is the kids knees keep pushing it up and opening it.
Either I go for the electronic solution, or something proper.
The catch I now have has a pair of bolts. These are sprung loaded to go across the car. Pulling the handle retracts them.
We have three fitting options.
1) The catch comes with a pair of brackets that screw to dashboard. The bolts engage these. This is how Ford designed it to work. I think they will need packing out slightly.
2) fit the catch off center so one bolt is protruding through a hole drilled in the side of the glovebox. Fit a metal plate to the side of the glovebox opening with a hole drilled to accept the bolt.
3) Modify the bolts to make them slightly longer. Fit the catch centrally and a plate both ends as above.
My problem is the kids knees keep pushing it up and opening it.
Either I go for the electronic solution, or something proper.
The catch I now have has a pair of bolts. These are sprung loaded to go across the car. Pulling the handle retracts them.
We have three fitting options.
1) The catch comes with a pair of brackets that screw to dashboard. The bolts engage these. This is how Ford designed it to work. I think they will need packing out slightly.
2) fit the catch off center so one bolt is protruding through a hole drilled in the side of the glovebox. Fit a metal plate to the side of the glovebox opening with a hole drilled to accept the bolt.
3) Modify the bolts to make them slightly longer. Fit the catch centrally and a plate both ends as above.
Torquemada said:
B&Q loft catch has served me well for 6+ years.
My loft catches last until the kids force the glovebox shut with their knees. Then the catch is never the same again and I end up fitting a new one.It's the lack of passenger legroom. The kids are 6' 5" and 6' 7" now, so it's become a real problem.
dnb said:
Battery in the boot time? Clive's scheme resulted in a lot more leg room.
I need boot room more than legroom.A few months ago I had a failing battery. So I started on a solution without moving the battery. Unfortunately the battery died completely before I could complete and that forced me to get a new standard battery. So I put the project on hold for now, I’ll come back to it. I just begrudge outing a new battery. When one of the other cars needs a new battery, I’ll swap it over and finish the job.
I identified a battery of different proportions, the Odyssey Extreme 40. It’s taller, thinner, powerful enough and lead acid, so without the drawbacks of Red Top’s. It’s 250 X 97 X 206mm and intended for big yank V8 racing applications (1100PHCA). Trouble is it’s about £160.
A new battery box would be required to exploit it. Surface and Design wanted about £60. Given the new battery box, an increase of 3” legroom is achievable. It doesn’t actually need a battery box since it is totally sealed and recycles gases. A set of clamp straps would do.
99% of the time the legroom isn’t an issue, Sue is 5’ 7” and has no problem. Unfortunately she has no concept of packing to suit the available space. She once tried to bring three 100 litre suitcases on a motorcycle touring holiday. Boot space is always tight with her. It’s only the odd occasion the kids ride and break another catch that I have a problem.
I have fitted one of these.... 
cut the sides off with a dremel (fixing holes) and hot glued into dash where plastic crap one goes.
Works really well and the mrs is happy her knees don't get clouted every time we hit a bump.
Cheap as chips...
GunShot.
Oh yeah forgot to add... also from B & Q for £2.14
cut the sides off with a dremel (fixing holes) and hot glued into dash where plastic crap one goes.
Works really well and the mrs is happy her knees don't get clouted every time we hit a bump.
Cheap as chips...
GunShot.
Oh yeah forgot to add... also from B & Q for £2.14
Edited by GunShot (Wound) on Monday 14th September 00:04
The various electronic locking designs bolt the glovebox closed. Some are wired via the alarm, so can’t open when the doors are locked.
The catch I’m working with comes from a Ford and uses a twin bolt system. There is a key lock built in, but that suffers with the disadvantage of needing an extra key to be carried since it differs from Vauxhall ignition key.
The catch I’m working with comes from a Ford and uses a twin bolt system. There is a key lock built in, but that suffers with the disadvantage of needing an extra key to be carried since it differs from Vauxhall ignition key.
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