1953-56 Ford Truck Altman Easy Bear Claw Latch kit

The Altman Easy Latch Kit for 1953–1956 Ford F-100 Trucks is the ultimate bolt-in solution for the classic "Effie" owner. Designed to replace the often finicky and worn-out original latches, this kit upgrades your truck to modern "bear jaw" technology. This means your doors will close with a light, solid click rather than the aggressive slamming typical of 1950s work trucks.

Precision Vehicle-Specific Design

This is not a "one size fits all" kit. It is engineered specifically for the door and jamb geometry of the 1953–1956 Ford F-Series:

• True Bolt-On Installation: The kit utilizes contoured jam plates that match the unique curves of your truck's doors. No welding is required, preserving the integrity of your bodywork.

• Full Handle Integration: Unlike universal latches, these are designed to work seamlessly with your original exterior handles, interior handles, and factory door lock cylinders.

• Modern Release Action: This kit includes black wrinkle-coated interior straps that connect your factory inside handles to the new rotary latch for a crisp, reliable pull.

• Shaved Handle Ready: If you are building a smooth-sided custom, the kit is fully compatible with electronic solenoids for shaved handle applications.

Industrial-Grade Construction

• Case-Hardened Paws: The internal rotary claws are 3/16" thick, case-hardened, and black-oxide coated to ensure they never bend or wear down, even with daily use.

• Corrosion Protection: Every primary component is zinc-plated, protecting the mechanism from the moisture that commonly collects inside classic door shells.

• Stainless Hardware: The kit features high-strength stainless steel striker pins and washers, ensuring a clean, rust-free look on your door jambs.

What's in the Box?

This comprehensive kit provides everything needed to upgrade both the driver and passenger side doors:

• Vehicle-specific bear-jaw rotary claw latches and mounting plates.

• Precision templates to ensure accurate alignment.

• Stainless steel striker pins and striker plates.

• All necessary mounting hardware and detailed instructions.

A Critical Safety Upgrade

Modern rotary claws provide a two-stage latching system that is significantly safer than the primitive single-stage latches found in 1953. They are designed to stay latched even under chassis flex or impact, providing peace of mind for you and your passengers.