My 1969 Barracuda convertible top latches cleaned up good, but one of them is missing the little torsion spring that loads the latch mechanism in one direction. Will this just be a minor inconvenience, or does the spring do something important? I don't think I can buy just the spring; have to buy a whole new latch.

Latches are CHEAP. To answer your question, the springs do little. They do keep the handle pulled when loose. I'd have to go look at all of my top latches to see if any of the old ones have those springs.

I did spend the money ($100/pair) for new latches for my GTS so that the very good latches on it could be used on my Barracuda. Also bought new latches for my son's Dart.