Is there an improved glove box handle?

[Mark 42]

Is there a better than stock glove box handle available anywhere?

It seems like the standard one breaks too easily (judging by the fact
that mine was broken when I bought the car, and it seems like I have
heard of a lot of people looking for replacements).

[jeffnhiscars]

There is no "upgrade" that I know, but the part that usually breaks is the upper catch. Its PN 51 16 1 955 759 & a BMW replacement lists for $7.47. Its $5.64 at getbmwparts.com

[reelizmpro]

I've only broken one in 20 years and that was because I was opening and closing the glovebox a little too strong and broke the backside of the latch internally on my 85. Just be careful with it and use it sparingly and you will be alright. Don't yank on it or slam it shut.

[MR 325]

Funny, I've only broken one too! Also on my 85...

[RUFFLZ]

Funny, I think the only thing that functions properly in my car is said glovebox LOL

[Mark 42]

I think BMW saved a lot of money on the dome lights.

[ZM Blue Devil]

there are two manufacturers, get the better quality and it will last another 20 years.

[Van Westervelt]

[frolf]

Mine broke a few months ago. I took one attempt at fixing it and couldn't manage to do it. Are there any tricks for this?

Of course I searched it already. But between "drop the back of the box" and "release the latch from the inside" there seems to be some trickery that I do not posses.

[Mark 42]

Lift up on the glovebox to push it all the way closed and take the load off of
the latch, then move the metal J hook to the right (it takes a bit of effort)

Reference picture:

http://c1552172.r72.cf0.rackcdn.com/156979_x800.jpg

[frolf]

Admittedly, I am an idiot. Let's just get that out of the way right now. Let me explain the steps I have taken.

0. Glove box is closed, unlocked, and the latch won't release.
1. Remove screws on back of glove box so that you can "sort of" access the inside.
2. Get frustrated because I can't see shit, can't reach my arm that far in, and have no idea what to do once my arm is half in the back of the glove box.
3. Remove arm, and screw the back of the box back to the car.
4. Post about my ineffectiveness.

Somewhere around step two is where it all goes to shit. Is the reference picture you (Mark 42) posted what I am reaching for from the inside of the box? Is this actually possible?

Thanks in advance for any wisdom you can share.

Dan

[Mark 42]

Take the front of the latch assembly off and you should see the parts in the picture.
Mine was already that far apart, so I'm not sure how you get to that point.

http://realoem.com/bmw/diagrams/v/t/0.png

[Thizzelle]

you cant get front off unless you can unscrew screws that are in the glove box. long screw driver and fiddling around for ever. or just destroy it and get new box and handle at junk yard. I have a bunch of handles for sale if you just need that.

[Mark 42]

The metal J hook is broken on mine, so I think I need the whole latch assy.

BTW, you might be able to lift the handle and push the bottom of the J-hook to the right with a tool of some sort (like a screwdriver with the tip bent).