308 GTS "Targa Top" latch handles | FerrariChat
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308 GTS "Targa Top" latch handles

Discussion in '308/328' started by dcb, Mar 22, 2010.

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  1. dcb

    dcb Rookie

    Apr 5, 2007
    13
    #1 dcb, Mar 22, 2010
    The right side removable top (Targa) latch/handle is broken. I can conceivably drill out the rivets, scribe a replacement hinge joint and mill said component on my vertical mill, then try to reassemble this to make a working unit. Looks like a lot of tedious work, but considerably cheaper than $320 for a replacement unit. And the answer is yes, I have way too much car than what I am capable of affording. Unfortunately, I was smitten by the Ferrari bug many years ago, and currently own this vehicle to satisfy two extremely important goals in life; to own at least one Ferrari, and to drive it and enjoy it the way it was meant to be. After having spent my life as an auto mechanic, ownership of a Ferrari seemed to be a suitable pinnacle of my life's endeavors. Sorry to wax philosophically.... Any thoughts on possible repairs or more economical alternatives? Otherwise, the left latch works, and the top stays on, even at speeds above 100 mph. Thanks in advance for any thoughts. DB
     
  2. mtmilam

    mtmilam Formula Junior

    Oct 24, 2009
    440
    Lafayette, LA
    Full Name:
    Mark Milam
    #2 mtmilam, Mar 22, 2010
    I have one that I just changed because the strap was torn on it. It Worked just fine. When I had the PPI done, they found it and I told them to go ahead and Change it....without asking the price...Yikes..You're right, they are 320.00 :)

    Anyway, I'll sell you mine for 130.00. I can email you a picture of it....Its off my 1986 328, the passengers side. If you're interested. my email is [email protected]
     
  3. Helmut

    Helmut Formula Junior

    Dec 11, 2004
    640
    #3 Helmut, Mar 23, 2010
    Doesn't Verell offer a rebuild for those? You might wanna do a search on here or try unobtainium supply.

    Helmut
     
  4. Verell

    Verell F1 Veteran
    Consultant Owner

    May 5, 2001
    7,022
    Groton, MA
    Full Name:
    Verell Boaen
    #4 Verell, Mar 25, 2010
    I can mold replacement rubber noses, and also braze on the L reinforcement inside the nose when it's broken off (usually is).
    See this Fchat thread:
    http://ferrarichat.com/forum/showthread.php?t=155901

    For ordering info, see my web site: http://www.UnobtainiumSupply.com

    However, I'm not yet setup to cost-effectively machine the internal parts, so I don't offer a mechanical repair service. Yes, like dcb, I could make the needed parts on my small mill, but at $75/hour It wouldn't take long to get to the price of a new latch!

    Once I get my CNC mill running, It wouldn't be hard to make the necessary steel parts & then harden them.
     

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