'53 Convertible top latch
 

Could somebody post a picture of the top latch handle for a '53 Crestline convertible? I have what appears to be an all original '53 that doesn't seem to have any handle to release the top from the header. All I can see is what appears to be a piece of flat steel that presumeable the handle attaches to? I will try to get a photo of mine soon but the car is in storeage away from home at the moment. Thanks again for the your help :)

Re: '53 Convertible top latch
 

Here is a photo of what I have.

Re: '53 Convertible top latch
 

These are from my 53' Merc. I have to believe it is similar if not the same. Normally these are on e-bay for around $300. If you zoom in you can read the part number. If you want I can send you the originals, just PM me with your e-mail address or send me an e-mail: [email protected].

OK, so mine needed to be cleaned up anyway, so I took it off to give you a few better pictures by its self.

Good luck and be careful, because they are made out of pot metal and break quite easily.

Re: '53 Convertible top latch
 

Thanks Roy, Just what I needed :)

Barners are AWESOME

Re: '53 Convertible top latch
 

Buy a header bar and get the handle free:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/1952-1953-1...O7Tj:rk:1:pf:0

Re: '53 Convertible top latch
 

I have a 53 Sunliner that had a broken handle. I bought on eon ebay, for around 150.00

Re: '53 Convertible top latch
 

Thanks for the link, i do really appreciate it, but $400 converts to $600 NZ then the freight cost would make this part cost me about $1000 by the time you include New Zealand tax component of 15% of the total cost including freight and I can't really justify that just to get the handle. I think that I can probably make something that will do the job (and look close to the real thing) a lot cheaper given my labour is kinda free :)

Re: '53 Convertible top latch
 

If you have access to one a 3D printer might be an alternative. I will let you know if I find others.

Re: '53 Convertible top latch
 

Thanks :)