Refrigerator grill release clips

[Zardoz]

Despite twisting, turning, pulling, pushing, and even trying to slide the two black latch knobs on the exterior refrigerator grill, I can't seem to figure-out how to release these clips. Can anyone please solve this mystery for me? Thanks in advance for your help.

[KarenH]

Mine are very tight but they turn to release the grill. (At least that's how my memory--admittedly not great--serves me.)

Edited: And I believe I had to push them in a bit in order to turn them but maybe I'm confusing them with those on the interior furnace grill.

[santacruzer]

Once you get them turned in the proper direction (and I don't recall which it is!), you may have to pry a little directly behind each knob to release them. They're still under a little tension. And if you break them, don't worry, they're readily available at RV stores. I carry spares!

[Ron in BC]

The "open" position is with the slot(s) vertical. On the back is a square peg that fits in a square hole. If they're not aligned properly the hatch won't open. Maybe I got lucky but I can open mine with only my fingers quite easily.

Ron

[Zardoz]

Thanks everyone. Tomorrow, I'll be heading to Seattle and stopping by the Camping World in Fife on the way up, and pick up a couple of spare clips "just in case." Appreciate the help!

[cpaharley2008]

I attached a small bungee strap inside to prevent losing mine

[techfan]

I too have been frustrated by these little black latches. I recently replaced them with thumb bolts and speed nuts. I used a plastic washer behind the thumb portion. I also installed a small o-ring on the inside threads to prevent the bolts from dropping out on removal. A speed nut (I believe that is what they are called) slips over the plastic on the inside of the grill. These can then be tightened and they are not coming off. It takes a little longer to unscrew them, but getting the grill off is not a real common occurrence, so I'd rather have the extra security.

[cpaharley2008]

Tim,
Any possible sources for these items?

[techfan]

Originally Posted by cpaharley2008

Tim,
Any possible sources for these items?

All were purchased at Ace Hardware. I have found Ace to be good for rare or unusual parts BUT they are more expensive.

[techfan]

Update. The o rings did not work as the hole was square and they would slip through. I took a plastic lid from cottage cheese container and cut small squares larger than the grid hole. I then punched a hole slightly smaller than the 1/4 x 20 thread on the thumb screw and pushed it on over the threads. Now it works to keep the thumb screw in place when the grid is off.