Fridge and freezer push button latch replacement

[R.B.]

Our fridge push button latch broke. The button would not stay down and therefore the door would not latch closed. I removed it and took it apart to see if it was repairable. The fact that it is made out of plastic did not give me any confidence though. Once apart, I saw that the tiny, very thin tab that holds the latch in place was broken with no easy way to fix. So a I needed a replacement. The latch had the manufacturers name on it Southco so I researched it on the web. There are several distributors in North America, so I called a few. I finally found someone that had latches or could order them. The part number is: M1-2A-12-1 for the same chrome replacement. I ordered from MW Fasteners in Oshawa, ON (1-800-663-5392) and they cost $17 Cdn. and a 10 day wait. Of course Taxes and shipping on top.

Thought I would pass on the info.

[Hans Grasman]

Ralph
With hull #342 I would think the dealer would have replaced it.
It happened on my fridge also soon after I took possession of the vessel and my dealer sent me a new unit. No charge.

[R.B.]

Hans,

You are correct. however I have found that I need to wait too long for things to get ordered from the dealer. I can usually just send them the bill and I will be re-imbursed. You know the old saying "if you want something done ...."

[R.B.]

Just to report ... The button that I purchased does not operate exactly the same. This new button you push to pop up or recess the knob, but to open the door, you turn the knob to retract the latch. So far I actually prefer this latch to the old one.

[eatkins23]

Any new information on available solutions for replacement Push button latch for refrigerator and Ice Box freezer hatch latch?
Catalina Direct site : shows C350: Ice Box Lid Latch, C-350 Part #: Z3228

I have a 2003 Catalina 350 Hull #10, my Ice Box/ freezer / fridge push button latch broke. The freezer unit has been frosting up quickly.
I replaced the original black rubber gasket with the Catalina Direct recommended, white square closed cell foam with adhesive backing. This new gasket material measures: 5/8" high X 3/4" wide X 25' long. it fits in the recessed well lip on the galley top opening for the Frig / Freezer openings.
The new foam hatch door insulation is very stiff and puts more pressure on the Push Button latch on the Refig / freezer hatch latch, and snapped the retractable catch off the latch. The catch on the button latch broke off and would not stay down and therefore the door would not latch closed. adding to the frosting problem.

An earlier 2006 post showed replacement item.
manufacturers name = Southco. The part number is: M1-2A-12-1 for the same chrome replacement. they ordered from MW Fasteners in Oshawa, ON (1-800-663-5392).
McMaster-Carr has some newer latch options as well.

Does anyone have a recommendation and source for replacement for the Push Button Latch, to ensure a tight seal, when the refig hatches are closed.

I appreciate your feedback and suggestions.
Fair Winds
Evan Atkins
2003 Cat350 #10

[tranquil]

My freezer llid latch broke today; button is stuck shut but still can open the lid on my 2004 Hull # 187. I found a different latch on Catalina Direct than the one you mentioned and think it may fit for me. It is:

Ice Box Lid Latch
Part #: Z2513
• Overall diameter of flange: 38mm (1-1/2")
• Diameter of cylinder: 32mm (1-1/4")
• Overall height (with button retracted) 53mm (2")
https://www.catalinadirect.com/shop-by- ... hResults=1

I get lifted next weekend and will take the broken latch out to compare, since the season is over for us in the Midwest.
Hope this helps.

Teri

[tranquil]

Said lid is home for winter repair......Spring on the underside is not working and prevents latching.
Any idea how to remove the old push button and latch without damaging the lid?