If a latch becomes damaged or worn, it can be easily replaced using the spare parts included with your Foil Drive kit.

Correct installation is important to ensure your Electronics Box seals properly and the lid closes smoothly. 

Before You Begin

You will need:

• Foil Drive Hex Driver
• Replacement latch
• Foil Drive dielectric grease 

Removing the Existing Latch

1. Turn the Electronics Box upside down.
2. Locate the latch retaining bolt in the outer corner of the box.
3. Using your hex driver, remove the stainless-steel retaining bolt.
4. Pull the bolt out.
5. Lift the latch away from the Electronics Box.

If required, replace the retaining bolt using the spare hardware supplied with your system.

Installing the New Latch

It is important that each latch is installed on the correct side.

Each latch is unique and is not interchangeable.

To identify the correct orientation:

• The text on the latch should face the same direction as the text printed on the Electronics Box.

If the latch is installed on the wrong side:

• The nose cone will not secure correctly
• The latch will feel loose, or slip off the nose cone recess point

Important: Do not force the latch closed.

If it doesn't feel like it normally does, remove the latch and confirm it has been installed on the correct side.

Lubricate the Bolt Threads

Before reinstalling the retaining bolt, apply a small amount of dielectric grease (or a suitable anti-corrosion grease) to the threads.

This is an important maintenance step because:

• The retaining bolt is 316 stainless steel.
• The Electronics Box housing is machined aluminium.
• Dissimilar metals can corrode over time if left dry.

Lubricating the threads helps:

• Prevent galvanic corrosion.
• Reduce the chance of the bolt seizing.
• Make future maintenance much easier.

This is the same maintenance practice recommended for foil mast and fuselage bolts.

Tip: These latch bolts use a small 3 mm thread. They are much easier to damage or seize than larger foil hardware, so regular lubrication is highly recommended.

Closing the Latches Correctly

When closing the Electronics Box:

1. Push the nose cone all the way onto the electronics box.
2. Apply even pressure to each latch as you close it.
3. Lock both latches securely.

Once closed, inspect the front of the Electronics Box.

There should be no obvious gap between:

• The nose cone
• The latches
• The Electronics Box housing

If a gap is present, reopen the latches and check that:

• The latches are correctly installed.
• The nose cone is seated correctly.
• Nothing is obstructing the seal.

Maintenance Tips

• Keep latch bolts lightly lubricated with dielectric grease.
• Remove, clean and re-grease the bolts periodically, particularly after use in saltwater.
• Never force a latch closed if it feels unusually tight.
• Replace damaged or cracked latches promptly to maintain a secure seal.

Watch the video below for step by step instructions

Frequently Asked Questions

Why won't my lid close after replacing a latch?

The most common cause is that the latch has been installed on the wrong side. The left and right latches have different profiles and are not interchangeable.

Can I use the spare bolts included in my kit?

Yes. Every Foil Drive kit includes spare latch hardware, including replacement retaining bolts.

Do I need to use grease?

Yes. Applying dielectric or anti-corrosion grease to the retaining bolt threads helps prevent corrosion between the stainless-steel bolt and aluminium housing, making future maintenance much easier.

How do I know the lid is sealed correctly?

After both latches are closed, there should be no visible gap between the nose cone, latches and the Electronics Box housing. The latches should close smoothly with even pressure.