A Practical Guide to Over Centre Catches

Over centre catches are one of those bits of hardware that just get on with the job. You see them on toolboxes, ute canopies, trailers and all sorts of workshop gear. They look pretty simple but they are designed to keep things shut tight while still being easy to open when you need quick access. At Ovesco, we keep a solid range of over centre catches, so you can find the one that suits your setup without any hassle.

The classic over centre catch is the one everyone recognises. It is the straightforward latch that flips over and pulls everything together with a firm hold. These are great for storage boxes, doors and panels that get opened a fair bit. They are a favourite for service bodies and sideboard panels because they close reliably and do not need anything complicated.

Lockable over centre catches are the next step when you want the same smooth action with a bit more security. They work well on toolboxes and gear that gets left out during the day. Pop a small padlock through and you are good. They also help keep everything settled on the road, so you are not dealing with rattles.

Stainless steel catches are the go-to when your gear is out in the weather. If you are coastal, running a boat trailer or leaving equipment outdoors, stainless steel is worth the upgrade. It handles the elements nicely, resists rust and stays looking clean, which means less upkeep over time.

Heavy-duty over centre catches are built for gear that deals with a fair bit of wear and tear. Trucks, agricultural machinery and industrial cabinets all benefit from the extra strength, thicker steel and stronger pull-up. If your equipment gets knocked about or sees plenty of movement, heavy duty is a smart choice. They stay secure long after lighter catches start to give way.

Spring loaded over centre catches are another clever option. They keep pressure on the latch, so it stays sealed even with vibration. These are great on trailers, campers and anything that will be jostled on rough roads. The spring helps the latch settle back into place, so you are not constantly checking if things are still shut.

There is also an important difference to know when choosing the right catch. Over centre catches come in adjustable and non-adjustable styles. Non-adjustable catches are simple, sturdy, and dependable. You fit them as they are, and they stay put, which works perfectly when your clearances are consistent, and nothing shifts around. They are ideal for cabinets, toolbox lids, machinery guards, and setups that stay steady.

Adjustable over centre catches give you that extra bit of flexibility. You can fine tune the tension and pull up length which comes in handy for gear that moves, settles or vibrates. Trailers, canopy doors, campers and equipment that see plenty of road time benefit from this. A small adjustment keeps everything closed even as materials wear or shift over time.

Adjustable Zinc Plated Over Centre Catches

Non-Adjustable Zinc Plated Over Centre Catches

Adjustable Stainless Steel Over Centre Catches

Non-Adjustable Stainless Steel Over Centre Catches

Each style has its place but the main thing they all offer is reliable consistency. A good over centre catch should feel smooth, close firmly and last for years. That is why Ovesco puts so much thought into the hardware we carry. We want gear you can count on whether you are fitting out your ute, fixing machinery or building something from scratch.

So, if you are weighing up your options or not quite sure which catch suits your project best, our team is always here to help. The right over centre catch makes a world of difference, and we are more than happy to point you in the right direction. Contact the team today for tailored recommendations and expert advice.