a latch system for retaining hatch covers on railroad cars can accommodate any hatch cover type made by any car builder . the latch has a universal arm with a custom - made hinge adapter at one end for pivotally connecting the arm to any hatch design or cover type . the other end of the arm mounts a catch adaptor which receives a catch bolt for retaining the arm in a closed position . the arm also has fittings for accepting brackets and wings for vented hatch covers .