Refurbishing, Repairing or Re-keying Pannier Latches

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This article is intended to descripe a way to dismantle, refurbish and rekey the pannier latches fitted to  BMW 'Touring' panniers supplied for use with post '84 BMW Airhead and early BMW 'k' series motorcycles. Specifically, these are the lid and frame latches as shown in the associated image. The article does not cover the 'Sudhaus' locks and latches fitted to BMW Krauser Classic panniers and it does not cover the later latches that shared the same key profile as the bike ignition key.

Each latch comprises three major components which in the absence of any other information, I have named as:

1. The Back Plate - This is an alloy casting that is fixed the the pannier body using blind (pop) rivets. It supports the other components.
2. The Latch - Another alloy casting, this is the part that engages the lug on the pannier lid or the pannier frame as applicable. It is closed and pulled into tension by...
3. The Lever/Lock body - A third casting, it engages with the two previous castings and is fitted with a lock which prevents the latch from opening when it is locked.

The article is divided into four parts. Visit each part by clicking on the relevant image below.