Stuck Bonnet

[crankin]

Out of the four times that I have removed the bonnet latch, washer plate, and striker pin, I have only been able to line up things up to where when I pull on the latch release the bonnet opens without any problems.

Now I have to hold the latch and push on the bonnet a few times before it releases.

Is there a trick to lining things up correctly?

[jac04]

I always leave the bolts on the female side of the latch loose, then lower the bonnet down onto it. This will help center the 2 parts of the latch. Shine a flashlight in there and have a look at it. Move the female side of the latch as required and snug down the bolts.

Adjusting the length of the male side of the latch is a bit of trial & error. If it's too tight, lengthen it. If too loose, shorten it.

Now, before doing any of this, make sure everything is clean, well lubricated, and moving freely.