Snugtop key locking mechanism

Hi fellow Toyota truck owners
Trying to get information about changing out the key locking mechanism for a pop out T handle on my snugtop camper shell.
Shell is on a 1998 Toyota Tacoma limited xtra cab V6.
Thanks

 

Discount camper shells
They’re in Long Beach California

 

Thanks! I haven't been able to get a price nor answer from snugtop so this helps. I think that if the end shaft is different, I can jury rig it.....any one experienced the same swap out?

 

If it's anything like my ARE it'll be super easy. Just 2 screws hold it in the back and the handle pulls out from the front. The hole should be large enough even a non snug top brand handle should work.. I bought leer handles (cause it was on sale) and the were the same.

The handle kits came with new arms so I didn't have to juryrig anything, just replaced all the parts

 

Why do you need a new one, lost key. I had a locksmith make a new key for me. Took him about 20 mins.

 

Not feasible using the key connected to the car keys to unlock it each time. Like the ease of turn in a instance. Lock only when necessary etc.

 

So I also recently needed a new key locking mechanism. I also have a snugtop. I would recommend upgrading (I did) to a flush mount with the cover included:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/SNUGTOP-PA...OORS-WILL-REPLACE-FLUSH-KEY-LOCK/273797820615

If you're keen on going OEM snugtop, it's only $10 more, looks much better, and you don't have to deal with the floppy rubber cover.

DISCLAIMER:

To install the latch, I had to carve out some metal with an angle grinder from the inside in order to allow the latch to turn (it's larger than what was previously on there). Everything else lines up.

The quality's solid, heavy metal, etc. however aftermarket latches of the same style also look like they would fit. Even so, overall I'm satisfied with the purchase (even though it wasn't 100% bolt-on).

 

Was the one you replace with this one a pop out lock? Im using my pop out lock with no rubber cover.

 

Yes, that's correct. My rubber cover was also broken so it was pretty much just the pop out lock.

 

The latch rods also don't fit *super* snug into the turning mechanism. I'll likely die them and throw on a bolt.

 

Cool, thanks. This is what I'm going to get. very helpful and its a step up to the rubber covered handle. Also, there's the eyelets where the rods will connect to. The rest I can figure out how to make it stay in place. Thanks again all.

 

@TMFF swapped his out with the newer more flush one.