Door latch problem Freedom 325

[Cap'n Pete]

Our 325 dual console front seating area has a door that is closed in chilly air to avoid a “wind tunnel effect” at speed. Trouble is, it pops open, probably due to vibration. Stays closed for maybe 10 minutes and then bam, it slams open.
Need ideas on adding some kind of extra latch to give a firm and lasting close. The Grady original latch needs help.
Has anyone solved this problem? Thanks!

 

[PointedRose]

Perko brand makes a variety of latches for marine purposes. Can get them on Amazon or most boating stores


Perko 1194DP0CHR Chrome-Plated Swivel Eye Hasp - 3" Length x 1" Width x 11/32" Padlock Clearance
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000FOW5CW/ref=cm_sw_r_awdo_navT_a_H94MHQZ38GP34W2DRYPR

 

[Cap'n Pete]

Great! Will explore Perko. Need a latch, not a lock and I do like the Perko line. Thanks for the quick response.

 

[Cap'n Pete]

After a long search I found the exact latch that Grady uses. Turns out the latch length is adjustable using a hex wrench in the latch end. I extended the latch on my boat by a small amount that allows it to fit tightly in the round strike. Will run this way and see if that works. Sure makes sense that it would. Grady “stuff” almost always works!

 

[gbgrady208]

Can you provide information on the GW latch? Part number and supplier if available? My bifold cabin door doesn't stay open (the magnetic holders don't align) and it seems the easiest solution is to just add a latch which will be more secure when bouncing around. Thanks....

 

[Cap'n Pete]

Take a look at Southco pt. # MR-03-121-24. I believe the strike can be adjusted in and out with a hex wrench in the end. (I can adjust mine by turning by hand, but others may be stiffer to adjust), I just got back from a voyage in choppy seas and the dual console door still didn't stay closed for more than 10 to 15 minutes. Finally I adjusted the strike to just miss the hole trim on the cabin wall and it held the door closed at speed. If I replace this (mine is Pt # MR-03-100-24 on my Freedom 325) I will use the MR-03-121-24 because it has the privacy latch (the 121 in the part number) and that may prevent it from vibrating open. No promises. Grady has a design issue here.

 

[gbgrady208]

Thanks -- this is a very different design than the one on my Marlin 300. I am going to try something that looks to be more secure and I agree with the design issue comment. For a boat of this quality, the cabin door should not be violently opening and closing. Part of my challenge is that the factory did not align the two halves of the latch so it's making the bad design even worse. I think I'm going to just add a hook latch - - not the best look but functional and will solve the problem (better than my fishing line system to tie it open).....

 

[GSnyder]

Picked up a new 325 Freedom about a month ago. Having the exact same issue. I also agree the door does not look like it was hung right at factory with regards to alignment. The boat is going in for 20 hour service next week and hopefully this (and a list of additional things) can get resolved quickly.