Panel Latches

[RAF56_Ball]

Does anyone have information as to what kind of latch was used on the cheek panels of the Sopwith types, especially the Pup? They appear to be either a quarter-turn or small push button type fastener, but none of the pictures of originals I have access to are detailed enough to tell.

[snj5]

Originally Posted by RAF56_Ball

Does anyone have information as to what kind of latch was used on the cheek panels of the Sopwith types, especially the Pup? They appear to be either a quarter-turn or small push button type fastener, but none of the pictures of originals I have access to are detailed enough to tell.

If they are like the fasteners on the Camel in the USAF Museum or some others, they are called Murphy Fasteners, which are the quarter turn type.
Just google "Murphy fasteners" and a variety of sources will appear.

I really debated about using these, as they are widely available, but for a couple reasons involving long term wear, decided to install the wingnut style Dzus fastener.

[Nick]

Not sure about the other Sopwith types but the Snipe used a half round fastener.



So far I've only managed to come up with the squarer looking Murphy fastener or turnbutton fastener. Has anyone seen fasteners like this available?

Cheers, Nick

[snj5]

While we are on the subject of fasteners in general, does anyone have a reference or a source for the cowl fasteners used on Sopwith types as the Pup or Camel?

Nick - sorry to report I've never seen that type of fastener used on any of the other WW1 or later types I have come across. Will keep an eye out for them as I nose around on net sweeps for parts.

[RAF56_Ball]

I just found an old thread from '03 where nomma had some pictures. If he ses this, he may be able to repost the links. I will PM him as well.

[redbaron1917]

Originally Posted by Nick

Not sure about the other Sopwith types but the Snipe used a half round fastener.



So far I've only managed to come up with the squarer looking Murphy fastener or turnbutton fastener. Has anyone seen fasteners like this available?

Cheers, Nick

The picture is very dark and hard to make out the fastener. I assume the turnbutton you refer to is similar or the same as offered by British Car Restoration suppliers. ie it might be similar to Moss motors cat# 227-500

Very nice project you have.

Cheers,

Tony Moore

[Nick]

Originally Posted by redbaron1917

The picture is very dark and hard to make out the fastener. I assume the turnbutton you refer to is similar or the same as offered by British Car Restoration suppliers. ie it might be similar to Moss motors cat# 227-500

Very nice project you have.

Cheers,

Tony Moore

Hi Tony,
Many thanks for replying, & for the link, much appreciated. The ones at Moss Motors look very similar to these ones which I got from Classic car parts for all classic, veteran and vintage cars (They call them turnbutton fasteners)



I'll probably end up using these if can't get something closer to the original.
It would also be interesting to see some close ups of the original fasteners on the Camel or Pup as it may be that these have just been substituted on Replica builds.

These fasteners I think are off a German aircraft (My apologies to whoever posted this pic first as I've forgotten where I downloaded it from) but are more similar to the Snipe which has a half round button.



Thanks again

Cheers, Nick

[hank jarrett]

Funny, this same discussion is going on the Taylorcraft group right now too. Any of you guys the same people? They are looking at antique and classic car upholstery places and boat parts stores.
The guy who did my 41 Taylorcraft upholstery had access to all kinds, but he does old cars and boat interiors/

Hank

[redbaron1917]

Originally Posted by hank jarrett

Funny, this same discussion is going on the Taylorcraft group right now too. Any of you guys the same people? They are looking at antique and classic car upholstery places and boat parts stores.
The guy who did my 41 Taylorcraft upholstery had access to all kinds, but he does old cars and boat interiors/

Hank

No Hank,

I just have been involved with a wide varity of manufacturing and fabrication for the past 25 years. Made Banjo style steering wheels, gas tanks, patch paneles, grill molding and more for Moss Motors and the Roadster Factory. Produced fiberglass body work for Formula Race cars. Designed and produced shifters, derailleurs and suspension forks for Mountain bicycles and been involved with CAD/CAM since the mid 90's.

Tony Moore

[hank jarrett]

Any chance you have made one of these? I have one and need a second. Been looking for several years.
Hank