Let’s Dive into RV Designer Universal Push Latch With Strikes 10 Pound
The RV Designer Universal Push Latch With Strikes 10 Pound promises a simple yet effective solution for keeping your RV cabinet doors and drawers securely closed. It’s a product designed for the often-overlooked but essential task of ensuring your belongings stay put while you’re on the road. RV Designer, a well-known name in the RV accessories market, aims to provide a reliable and universal latching mechanism.
My RV’s original latches were failing, causing drawers to fly open on bumpy roads. I needed a solution that was easy to install, universally compatible, and could handle the rigors of travel without popping open unexpectedly.
Upon unboxing, the latch felt lightweight yet sturdy. The plastic construction seemed durable enough for regular use, though not exceptionally premium. The inclusion of both small and large strikes was a thoughtful touch, suggesting a genuine attempt at universal fit.
I considered magnetic latches and roller catches, but chose the RV Designer Universal Push Latch for its simplicity and positive locking action. Magnetic latches can sometimes fail on very rough roads, and roller catches don’t always provide the same level of secure closure.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The latch appeared well-made and the included strikes offered flexibility, but I reserved full judgment until it was installed and tested under real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting RV Designer Universal Push Latch With Strikes 10 Pound to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the RV Designer Universal Push Latch on a cabinet door in my RV’s kitchen area. The installation was straightforward, requiring only a drill and a screwdriver. I tested it immediately on a short drive around the neighborhood, including some deliberately bumpy sections of road.
The latch performed flawlessly, holding the cabinet door securely closed even on the roughest bumps. The “push to close, push to open” mechanism worked smoothly and reliably. No issues arose from the initial install and test.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of regular use, including a 2,000-mile road trip with varying terrain, the latch continues to perform admirably. It has held up well to the constant vibrations and jostling associated with RV travel.
There are no signs of significant wear and tear, though the plastic does show a few minor scuffs. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a damp cloth to wipe away dust and grime. The latch outperforms the original equipment latches, which began failing within a year of purchase.
Breaking Down the Features of RV Designer Universal Push Latch With Strikes 10 Pound
Specifications
- Holding Capacity: Up to 10 pounds. This is adequate for most RV cabinet doors and drawers, but heavier items might require multiple latches.
- Material: Durable plastic. Provides a good balance of strength and lightweight properties.
- Includes: One latch, one small strike, and one large strike. Offers versatility in installation to accommodate different door and frame configurations.
- Universal Fit: Designed to work with a variety of cabinet door and drawer styles. Increases the likelihood of compatibility with existing RV setups.
- Individually Available Strikes: Strikes can be purchased separately (H318 and H319). Allows for replacement of worn strikes or customization.
These specifications are crucial because they directly affect the latch’s ability to keep cabinets closed, its longevity, and its ease of integration into your RV. The 10-pound holding capacity gives a decent amount of retention to keep cabinets closed while not making it difficult to open them.
Performance & Functionality
The RV Designer Universal Push Latch With Strikes 10 Pound excels at its primary function: keeping cabinet doors and drawers securely closed during RV travel. The push-to-close/push-to-open mechanism is simple, reliable, and easy to operate even with one hand.
The latch’s strength is its simplicity and consistent performance. A potential weakness is the plastic construction, which might not be as robust as metal alternatives in the long run. Ultimately, it meets expectations by providing a secure and reliable latching solution at an affordable price.
Design & Ergonomics
The RV Designer latch has a simple, functional design. The plastic material is lightweight and doesn’t add unnecessary weight to cabinet doors or drawers. It provides a subtle yet clean look.
The push-to-operate mechanism is intuitive, requiring no special skills or tools. No learning curve, making it easy for anyone to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The plastic construction appears reasonably durable and should last for several years with normal use. However, it’s unlikely to withstand extreme abuse or heavy loads beyond its rated capacity.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The simple design makes repairs unlikely to be needed, but replacement is a simple option if necessary.
Accessories and Customization Options
The RV Designer Universal Push Latch With Strikes 10 Pound comes with both small and large strikes, providing some customization options for different door/frame configurations.
There are no specific accessories designed for this latch beyond the separately available strikes (H318 and H319). It is generally compatible with standard RV cabinet hardware.
Pros and Cons of RV Designer Universal Push Latch With Strikes 10 Pound
Pros
- Simple and Reliable Mechanism: The push-to-close/push-to-open design is easy to use and consistently reliable.
- Universal Fit: The included small and large strikes increase the likelihood of compatibility with various RV cabinets.
- Easy Installation: Installation is straightforward, requiring only basic tools.
- Affordable Price: Provides a cost-effective solution for securing RV cabinets and drawers.
- Decent Holding Capacity: The 10-pound rating is sufficient for most standard RV applications.
Cons
- Plastic Construction: While durable enough for normal use, plastic is less robust than metal alternatives.
- Aesthetics: The simple design may not appeal to those seeking a more premium or decorative latch.
Who Should Buy RV Designer Universal Push Latch With Strikes 10 Pound?
Perfect for: RV owners looking for a simple, reliable, and affordable solution to keep their cabinet doors and drawers securely closed during travel. Ideal for those with standard-sized cabinets and moderate storage needs.
Who should skip this product? Those with very heavy items in their cabinets or those seeking a high-end, decorative latch. Owners of high-end coaches might find the plastic construction aesthetically unappealing.
Must-have accessories or modifications? None, as the latch includes everything needed for basic installation.
Conclusion on RV Designer Universal Push Latch With Strikes 10 Pound
The RV Designer Universal Push Latch With Strikes 10 Pound is a solid choice for RV owners seeking a practical and affordable latching solution. Its simple design, easy installation, and reliable performance make it a valuable addition to any RV.
The price is certainly justified, considering its functionality and ease of use. It’s a worthwhile investment in preventing unwanted cabinet and drawer openings during travel.
I would definitely recommend it to fellow RVers who are looking for a straightforward and dependable latch. For a simple, effective, and budget-friendly way to keep your RV cabinets secure, give the RV Designer Universal Push Latch a try – you might be surprised at how much peace of mind it provides.