creeksideguitar Posted July 23, 2018 Share Posted July 23, 2018 (edited) I just fixed my broken plastic latch on my 70's Gibson chainsaw protector case. It was fairly easy so I wanted to share my process to help others who might have this same issue. First I ordered these parts: 3-Pack of Replacement Latches for Gibson Protector Guitar Case https://www.ebay.com/itm/3-Pack-of-Replacement-Latches-for-Gibson-Protector-Guitar-Case-Black-Les-Paul/182162831000 60 Sets Black Chicago Screws Assorted Kit https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B077174CVW Second, I pulled back the interior cloth a little bit and I took a 13/64 drill bit and drilled the old rivets out from the inside of the case. You just need to drill the smashed rivet top off and then you can pull the bottom part of the latch off on the outside of the case. I didn't need to replace the top part of the original plastic latch. Third, I used the 13/64 drill bit and drilled through the new plastic latch holes (to enlarge the holes a bit) and also through the original case holes (to enlarge a little bit). This will fit the black chicago screws perfectly. Fourth, I used the middle size Black Chicago screw (3/8" (10mm) - the linked pack comes with three sizes) and fastened the new latch on, putting the flathead screw part of the chicago screws on the inside. After this I sprayed some cloth adhesive to re-attach the inside cloth, let dry for an hour and project is finished. The best part about ordering the three replacement latches and multiple Chicago screws is I have the parts needed if the other two original latches decide to break in the future. Edited July 23, 2018 by creeksideguitar 1 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Marky Forrest Posted July 24, 2018 Share Posted July 24, 2018 Looks like a very well done DIY job. I had a similar problem with a SKB case years ago. They sent me four new latches with the rivets for free. I was really surprised. The case is rectangular, black plastic and has Fender USA depressed in the side. Sorry, I digressed. Nice job! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Blacklake Posted November 21, 2019 Share Posted November 21, 2019 Awesome! Thank you! I'm hoping I can get another 40 years out of my case. I chose to put the slotted head on the outside of the latch (that way I can still tighten it down when needed after the material inside has been glued down). Thanks again! 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Blacklake Posted November 22, 2019 Share Posted November 22, 2019 For those confused. The top picture shows the latch with the smooth side of the Chicago screws in the latch. I reversed them so the slotted head is exposed for easier access. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ceptorman Posted November 23, 2019 Share Posted November 23, 2019 Good job.... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
badbluesplayer Posted November 24, 2019 Share Posted November 24, 2019 Nice!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
merciful-evans Posted November 24, 2019 Share Posted November 24, 2019 great job. Gives me an idea to fix a misaligned bracket on my case. 👍 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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