Windshield Latch Alternatives

As many of you all likely know (especially if you aren't running a cage) that the original latch type windshield latches dont do the greatest job at holding the windshield up in a quiet, sturdy manner. I know that the little plate with plastic knob screws works from Advanced Adapters, but I like the idea of latches. I saw some cool, approximately the right size latches made for boats that are stainless and look pretty sturdy. I was wondering if any of yall tried something like these or have any alternatives that have worked well.

Here's what I found:

Amazon.com : Mxeol Boat Lockable Hold Down Clamp Latch Marine Clasp Locker Hatch W/Boat Pin & Screws : Sports & Outdoors

 

Cheap fix:
I drilled a hole through the latches and replaced the lower plate screws with an extended loop bolt. It does run the end of the latch in to the dash a bit, but holds the windshield solid and is easy to remove. Been there over 30 years and still works.

 

Extended loop bolt? Please. And a photo of “run the end of the latch in to the dash a bit” I also need a more solid windshield but I’m totally not following.

 

Yeah, welcome from Boston.

This is not an issue that I recognize as a problem. The regular catches have always worked well for me. I recall there is an added part welded to the dash steel that stops the catch from loosening? If that were missing, the hook could slide up. Seems like a better solution - I'll try and get a pic later.

 

This is a universal fact in my experience. I use rubber shims at the hinges.

 

Maybe the earlier Jeeps do not have this -


This piece is welded to the dash steel and has notches that key into the hook part of the latches. Quite solid in my experience.

 

Thank you all for the several reply’s. If this is the case, I suppose I’ll be looking for a used set of latches (the folded over section on the top latch snapped off on both driver and passenger) I will get a new cowl seal as well, and maybe bike innertube until it stops shaking?

I actually got a m38a1 reproduction dash as it’s way cheaper than a cj5 dash, would this dash panel have these nubs you’re talking about, I know it has a plate on the backside that’s welded.

I have noticed that getting reproduction latches is just about impossible for a cj5, is there a place j should look or is this really the case? Also are the bottom hooks the same across all the early cj’s? If so maybe swapping to new ones may help

 

I see what your talking about, my dash does have those, although the hooking part is not as pronounced, I’m sure it’s the reason lower hooks aren’t sliding up

 

I would be very interested in seeing this as well

 

Me too.

 

Mine do.

 

I built these to hold the windshield in place.

 

That looks like a great idea! I have an extra set of latches, I may give your modification a try.

 

So here is my setup. Years ago I started trying to modify the bolt to be easier and more aesthetic, hence the wing nut on the drivers side.