Hello, Just returned from hot trip to the southwest. During the trip a housing for 1 of the 2 mounting screws broke. With only one screw holding the assembly there is no way to secure the hatch. 1500 mile return trip with a rattling hatch is no fun. Anyone else had to replace this assembly? I can't see where or how it breaks down. Rivets mount the arm to the frame and the crank assembly housing. I'll take any suggestions before I call the factory. Thanks for taking the time. Bill '08 MB
Bill,
I think you are saying the crank lift mechanism came loose from the screen cross bar. I would drill out the bad rivets and replace with new pop rivets, sheet metal screws, or machine screws. You might have to put someone on the roof to do this, tighten nuts and apply locktite.
Hey Rodney,
Thanks for the advice. My real problem is the with the two mounting screws that hold the mechanism to the cross bar. One end plate that holds one of these screws broke off. I have no way to drill another hole for the mounting screw.
Thanks again.
Bill
Bill,
I see spell check scored again, on my previous salutation. Since corrected.
I have seen the crank mechanism on line.
Try amazon
Upon purchase, mine rattled excessively, though screws were tight. Turns out one of the previous-owner-replaced screws was too long, and interfered with the mechanism fully closing. Applied a generous dose of screw-shortener and all was well. So take a look at how it operates to avoid similar interference.
Hey Rodney,
You made my day! Thanks so much for the Amazon tip. I was starting to sweat it out as to what I was going to do. I don't know why I didn't think to do a web search. Thanks again. Bill
Hi Chip,
Thanks for the heads up to watch out for the rattles. I'll make sure everything is nice and tight. Bill
You guys are the best! Have a good day.