Rubber T-Handle Latches
Regardless of the industry you serve, you most likely will need to secure items in place, and fasteners and tie-downs might not cut it. Whether it is to lock vehicle hoods or safeguard other enclosures, such as battery boxes, storage hatches, or even gun boxes, a consistent locking option is imperative.
In these scenarios and others, latches are a reliable solution. Rubber T-handle latches are versatile, flexible latches that function by stretching an easy-to-grasp T-shaped rubber handle into a stainless-steel keeper. Their design makes them convenient to use while still providing the desired security. Additionally, the rubber material provides a weather-proof, semi-flexible, and economical hold-down solution that is resistant to vibration on trailers, RVs, and boats.
Sierra Pacific Engineering and Products (SPEP) manufactures heavy-duty rubber T-handle latches in small, medium, large, and extra-large sizes with either long or short keepers that can be mounted stem up or down. This allows the user to precisely tune the latch to the intended application and use. Discover more about our selection and why a rubber T-handle latch may be the security answer you’re looking for.
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What Is a Rubber T-Handle Latch?
A rubber T-handle latch, also known as a rubber draw latch, flexible T-handle draw latch, toggle latch,or hood latch, has a traditional draw latch design with a sturdy T-shaped handle. The curved shape of the handle, which mimics the letter T, provides a comfortable grip for users and can bear heavy pressure. The way that this type of latch fits into the hand makes it much easier for users to grip than a handle of a different shape.
Due to their black rubber or thermoplastic elastomer construction, rubber T-handle latches are highly durable and UV resistant. This means that they can remain outside in the sun and still maintain their integrity. With the use of stainless steel, they are often non-corrosive.
Flexible T-handle draw latches are used for a wide range of applications in multiple industries, including industrial, commercial, and residential. Common uses of rubber T-handle latches include:
- Automobiles: Rubber T-handle latches can secure vehicle engines with automotive hoods or for trucks and trailers.
- Boats: Being non-corrosive, flexible T-handle draw latches are commonly used for keeping cabinets, toolboxes, doors, and hatches on vessels and other watercraft closed.
- Horse trailers: Rubber draw latches are frequently used on horse trailers to fasten doors and boxes, or to use as a door latch for a loading ramp or folding tack compartment.
- Enclosures: Rubber T-handle latches can be used to secure lids on toolboxes, coolers, and other equipment to protect the contents of the enclosure and others.
Key Features of Rubber T-Handle Latches
Flexible draw latches stand out as reliable locking systems for several reasons. The extended handle provides extra leverage, which means securing high clamp loads only requires minimal effort. Plus, the flexible design prevents misalignment.
Rubber T-handle latches often have built-in detents to prevent the mechanism from opening due to excess vibration or shock. Stem-up or slotted stem-down keepers (or hooks) allow integrated rubber knobs to connect with the mounting surface, further damping vibrations.
At SPEP, we manufacture T-handle latches in industrial quality rubber, with hooks made of durable stainless steel in a passivated finish. If none of the latches in our extensive catalog meets your requirements, our experienced engineering staff can help modify a design or create a new one to your custom specifications.
How to Choose the Right Rubber T-Handle Latch
When browsing flexible T-handle draw latch variations and choosing the most suitable option for your needs, there are many considerations. Begin by figuring out your purpose for the rubber T-handle latch. What is it you need to secure? Many times, they are used as rubber hood catches on farming machinery, engineering machines, and even golf carts.
Next, take into consideration the ideal materials for your intended application. Rubber T-Handle latches are most commonly constructed with steel, stainless steel, nylon, rubber, and glass-filled nylon. Finishes are often natural, zinc-plated, or passivated.
Additionally, think about the specific keeper styles that will best suit your needs. There are several options to choose from, such as reverse keeper, right angle keeper, F, R, and concealed mount. Also, it’s important to decide between pull or lever-assisted rubber T-handle draw latches, as the option you choose can impact the latch’s overall effectiveness for your use.
Does a longer handle mean more security?
A longer mounting distance between the anchor bracket at the base of the handle and the keeper increases the pull force required to unlatch the pull. The farther the rubber latch stretches, the greater the force required to unlatch the handle.
What sizes do rubber T-handle latches come in?
Rubber T-handle latches are available in a wide range of sizes, starting with small and going to extra-large. The size that you require will depend on the application.
What if SPEP doesn’t have what I’m looking for?
SPEP is a global developer, manufacturer, and supplier of industrial hardware products to OEMs and distributors. We take great pride in the quality of our industrial hardware products. Our ISO 9001 certification shows our commitment to quality.
If new existing or new customers browse our inventory and can’t find the part number they are looking for, SPEP can manufacture a product that meets their specific needs. We can supply rubber T-handle latches in multiple quantities (qty) and pieces (pcs).