Keeler Lock Exterior Handle

[captmatt]

I have a new 'braced' handle and I'm ready to swap out the old cracked one. I looked for any info on how to do it and what to expect but I couldn't locate any, I'm not a very good "web detective"... Looks like just 3 screws on the inside of door and 2 in jamb by the latch. But I'll just bet there is more to it than just removing the screws and pulling out the lock for handle service. Any hints before I go into this "blind" are appreciated!

[noreen&sal]

Remove the 3 inside screws first. The inside handle will pull off. Then remove the 2 in the door edge. There is probably some sealant that will bind the outside to the door, but should not be a problem. While its out clean it and lube it good. Sal.

[jama68]

Where did you get the "braced" handle? I have the same problem and have been looking for a replacement handle. As the reply from NOREEN said removing the lock assembly is very easy (5 screws), the harder part is driving out the roll pin that holds the handle in place. I used a long bolt the same diameter as the pin and that worked farily well.

[perryg114]

I just made a new handle for mine. There was a guy on here making them but he did not respond to my IM's so I made my own. Here is a prototype drawing. I had to make some tweeks to this and have not made those updates yet. The final version is on my trailer. It works like new.

Perry

[perryg114]

You remove the three screws on the backing plate on the inside and then remove the two bolts in the door frame. You can knock the roll pin out with a 1/4" dowel or flat head punch. There is a spring in there that is a little bit of a pain to get back in so pay attention how it fits in there or better yet take a photos of it before removal. If you get frustrated it will work fine without the spring in there.

Perry

[jama68]

Hi perryg114 you must be a MUCH better metal worker than I am! Your drawing looks very good. You interested in making another one to sell? If so how much, I would be interested.

[jama68]

Perryg another thought, if you don't want to post prices you can e-mail me at jama68@gmail.com. Thanks.

[perryg114]

Here are some photos of the finished product.

Perry

[captmatt]

Vintage Trailer Door Parts

[perryg114]

$285 you could by a basket case trailer for that.

Perry

[dctrapp]

Anyone know where to buy one these days. Mine just broke...

[barts]

Originally Posted by dctrapp

Anyone know where to buy one these days. Mine just broke...

Out-side Door handle for lock. 380346 [380346] - $49.95 : Out-of-Doors Mart!, More Airstream Parts on-line than anyone!
- Bart

[perryg114]

I can make you one of the Keeler Brass type handles which is usually the part that breaks. This is just the flapper thing that you grab to open the door which is usually the part that breaks.

Perry

[captmatt]

Originally Posted by perryg114

$285 you could by a basket case trailer for that.

Perry

Pan down page a little, just handle is like $30....

[perryg114]

You mean this one?

http://www.vintagetrailersupply.com/..._p/vts-929.htm

I wonder if it is still that crappy aluminum-zinc casting like the original. I think a billet handle is going to hold up better in the long run. $29 is not bad and I would have gone that route if I realized I could have just bought the handle.

Perry

[dctrapp]

Yes, just like the one at vintage supply, but they are out. Also, the rabbit ear slide it connects to is bent. Pics attached

[perryg114]

There are two of those little steel tabs that work the lock mechanism. It looks like one is broken off. The one on the right of your photo. I am trying to remember what that piece looks like. I believe it is a steel stamping. I expect it broke because the broken handle put too much stress on that one tab.

Perry

[captmatt]

Try this link to zero you in a bit...
Keeler Lock Exterior Handle Reproduction

[Alden Miller]

Does anyone know where to get the roll pins for the exterior handle? One of ours sheared off and I need to replace them.

-Alden

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by Alden Miller

Does anyone know where to get the roll pins for the exterior handle? One of ours sheared off and I need to replace them.

-Alden

Hardware stores, Home Depot, etc.

Andy