[ReelMagic]

   
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I own a 2003 Tiara 38 Open and experienced multiple failures of the head door latches (SOUTHCO Mobella MA-R9742RO) over the past 10 years. Have replaced the engine each time at a cost of $85 each... The failure has always been the spring internal to what is call the latch engine... See attached photo (It's brass in the lower left corner)... Has anyone else been having this problem???? Thanks in advance

[Sans Peur]

I had one of the tiny little screws come out and cause it to misalign with the rest of the lock. A trip to Ace Hardware and all is right again. It was a PITA to get it back together again but doable. Other than that it is a 2000 41 Open and no latch problems.

[jclark003]

I'm picking up a 52 Sovran next month and i noticed that several door latches have issues. Presumably the same thing you have gone through. Wasn't expecting $85 each just to repair but guess I shouldn't be surprised. Current boat (43 open) has had no issues.

[jclark003]

Where did you source the parts?

[ReelMagic]

Several places including Tiara and SOUTHCO. Mine are MA-R9742RO which means its for a door that hinges on the right side and opens out. First replacement from Tiara, engine only, cost around $85.00 but just a few days ago they indicated it would now cost $276.00 although that maybe for the entire door handle set and not just the engine (part 6550036) ..... If its just for the engine the cost is over the top. Also purchased from SOUTHCO directly and believe it cost around $85.00. Other suppliers are on-line just google the part number MA-R9742RO.

[bluebikemike]

Yes I've had the same problem over the years, with no solution.

So we kept a 6 in 1 screw driver and needle nose pliers (The Unofficial Tiara Tool Kit) handy, for when our guests fail to heed our instructions, of not locking the door. Always works.

Good luck.