Replacing Yakima Skybox 16 Carbonite Latches and Locks

Updated 10/23/2025 | Published 09/20/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Replacement SuperLatch Handles for Yakima SkyBox Cargo Boxes - Qty 2

(211)

$59.40

Yakima Same Key System (SKS) Lock Cores (QTY 2)

(464)

$49.95

Question:

I recently obtained a yakima skybox 16 carbonite, but the latch operation feels sloppy. In other words there does not seem to require much precision to operate the latch. This doesn't sound like a problem, but I noticed that if I barely insert the key and twist, the lock core operates. The key barely needs any insertion and I am 100% certain that I could open the latch with a small screw driver without any lock picking experience. Does this sound like normal operation, or should I replace the latches? or just the lock cores? Thanks

asked by: Scott

Expert Reply:

It sounds like your Skybox has already been tampered with as this is not normal at all. I recommend you replace the entire assembly using the Replacement SuperLatch Handle Assemblies for Yakima SkyBox Rooftop Cargo Boxes - Qty 2 # Y8880348. These latches come with the SKS lock cores and 2 keys as well as the latch.

This will actually be less expensive than just replacing the Yakima Same Key System (SKS) Lock Cores (QTY 2) # Y07202.

expert reply by: Jason S

Jim F.

2/22/2020

My skybox will lock but wont turn the last quarter turn, I have to wiggle the key& turn handle at the same time to open

Chris R.

2/24/2020

I wonder if there's some debris or even a bit of corrosion built up inside the lock core that's causing issues with operation. Try spraying in some lubricant like WD-40 and then just use the key to get it all the way inside the mechanism. You may need to do this a couple times for best results. Let me know if this doesn't resolve the issue and we can go from there.

10/23/2025

@ChrisR my skybox entire latch system is not working. I pulled both core locks, lived them an put back in. The key still won’t turn. I think I’d like to just replace both locks and entire latch mechanism. The box itself is in excellent shape. Is this hard to do?

Robin H.

10/23/2025

@Cb removal and installation of the # Y8880348 is pretty simple. Check out the answer page linked below which shows a picture of the instructions.

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