'65 Globetrotter entry door latch problems

[kennyp315]

Well it finally happened. I closed the door to my trailer to take a break from varnishing and can't get back in through the door. I have the keyed deadbolt and above that is the round door knob catch. The deadbolt works fine, but the knob latch is shot. Does anyone know where I can get a hold of one. I have the knobs off, as i climbed in the rear bath window, and the plate, but door still won't open. Help, Kenny

[Ganglin]

Two versions from the 1960s. I believe Inland RV (CA) also has these.

Vintage Trailer Door Parts

[Melody Ranch]

Custom Bargman Lock

There is a chance that you just locked yourself out. If you raise the inside lever this activates the lock and if you shut the door....you better be on the inside.
Good luck.

[kennyp315]

Unfortunately not even Inland Rv carries this old latch assembly. Mine is not the one with the keyed knob. It is separate from the dead bolt. Once I get it out I will find an old locksmith shop. The problem is getting it out. The plunger/cam only moves about half the distance that it should to open manually. I'm hoping that with help I might get pressure off door (there is new wheather stripping) and try and move the cam. If worse comes to worse I might have two drill or sawzall it and take it out in pcs. Here is a photo. It won't post photo. Kenny

[kennyp315]

Success. I tried everything and finally used the sawzall and drill motor to break up the old mechanism. It wasn't real pretty, but the door is open now. I am half way there and only a couple small scratches. Kenny

[sunnyhillfarm]

Please let us know how you fare in repairing this door handle mechanism! We have a 1965 Caravel with a failing door handle. We believe that our handle and dead bolt were made by Weiser and just for 1965 Airstreams.

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by sunnyhillfarm

Please let us know how you fare in repairing this door handle mechanism! We have a 1965 Caravel with a failing door handle. We believe that our handle and dead bolt were made by Weiser and just for 1965 Airstreams.

Using the L-100 special that has been used for years on the 66,67,68 and 69 trailers, will solve your problem.

The door will need to be slightly modified, but once you do, the problem is solved.

The original 65 entrance door lock, was a modified version of a household lock.

Repairing them at this point has little value, since they are worn out to start with.

Andy

[kennyp315]

I solved my problem with my door. I found an old time locksmith who had two brand new '60's locks still in the box. I bought both. I tapped the door mechanism holes and put threaded inserts 10/24 in. The old stripped out holes are gone and it is solid. The cam works like it should. Thanks for everyones moral support. I did call Inland RV and they had nothing for this old lock. Look for my '65 Globetrotter in the latest issue of Airstream Life. Kenny

[sunnyhillfarm]

Hi Kenny,
Would you be interested in selling us your extra lock?
Tony & Linda Starbird

[kennyp315]

I want to keep my extra lock, just in case this happens again. I think that the locksmith might have one more. It is a Westlock 5" 60's style. Call Kennedy Lock and Safe 818.705.1859 ask for Larry Kennedy. He will remember me when you tell him about my trailer. He is located in Reseda, Ca. He is a very nice guy. Good luck, Kenny

[gail]

Does the caravel lock from the inside. we can not do that. Ours locks only from the outside? is something broken? thanks, gaiil

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by gail

Does the caravel lock from the inside. we can not do that. Ours locks only from the outside? is something broken? thanks, gaiil

Your Airstream uses the infamous KT lock.

It was designed to lock from the inside as well as the outside.

They can easily be repaired, by a dealer that stocks the repair parts for that lock.

Or, you can send the lock to a dealer, after confirming that they have the parts.

Be aware however, that the replacement parts only come from Airstream, and in turn to a dealer, and their cost is not cheap.

Locksmiths do not have parts for that lock.

Andy