1978 Tradewind Entrance lock

[ashe]

I am trying to find a replacement for the front entrance lock. Any ideas on where I might find one. Airstream says they are no longer manufactured and they do not have any replacement in their inventory. thanks

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by ashe

I am trying to find a replacement for the front entrance lock. Any ideas on where I might find one. Airstream says they are no longer manufactured and they do not have any replacement in their inventory. thanks

We have the replacement lock kit.

http://www.inlandrv.com/parts/22390.jpg

Andy

[overlander63]

Originally Posted by ashe

I am trying to find a replacement for the front entrance lock. Any ideas on where I might find one. Airstream says they are no longer manufactured and they do not have any replacement in their inventory. thanks

Welcome to the forums!
Your lock is one of the "unobtainium" parts on older Airstreams. You can try to repair it, try to find a used one, or give Andy's repair kit a try.

[ashe]

What modifications have to be done to use this kit? I am not handy to say the least or mechanically inclined?

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by ashe

What modifications have to be done to use this kit? I am not handy to say the least or mechanically inclined?

The adapter plates must be riveted in place. One on the outside of the door and one on the inside of the door.

Instructions are included.

The original lock was made by Keeler Brass, who later went out of business.

That lock was replaced by using a lock made by GM, and an adapter plate. this is not General Motors.

Then the GM tooling was flooded out, and that company decided not to replace it.

There are no parts available for the Keeler Brass or the GM locks.

We put the kit together some time back, so that owners had a way to secure the door, as opposed to "your out of luck."

Andy

[cameront120]

Is there a kit for replacing the door latch on a 1972 model?

[ashe]

Great Andy, thank you. I will be contacting you in the near future.
Nick

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by cameront120

Is there a kit for replacing the door latch on a 1972 model?

We also have a kit for the 70 to 72 models.

Part # 22380. It is not listed in our web site sale list.

About 1/3 the cost of the original KT lock.

But, you must modify the door slightly.

Takes about an hour to install.

Instructions are included.

Andy

[cameront120]

Thanks Andy. Another question if I might. What gasket material is recommended for the door?

[startrekker2001]

I have had problems with the lock on my 78 Excella. The problem was simple and was fixed by a competent welder for $10 and once for a six pack. The replacement kit will cost around $150 or more and require cutting the door to get it to fit.

Take the door handle out and check out the bolt plate sub assembly. The ears on the assembly are probably broken off or the bolt is broken off the assembly. In either case, it can be fixed by a welder and it will be worth the effort. Thank the Airstream gods you have a 78 and not a 77 which would cost over $700 for the kit. I am attaching the page from the 78 Excella manual that covers the lock.

Vic

[easyride]

OK Andy you talked me into it,just called and ordered kit for my 77 Overlander.Very nice girl on the phone,seems to know what she`s doing,thanks for great service.Dave

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by cameront120

Thanks Andy. Another question if I might. What gasket material is recommended for the door?

We recommend the "D" shaped gasket for the trailers with the cast door frame.

It does a much better job than the double flare type gasket.

We also now use the "D" gasket for all the windows from 1964 to present.

You should also check the wear on the striker pocket. If it's appreciably worn, it will not allow the door to close properly.

Andy

[cameront120]

Thanks Andy. I thought I'd seen that gasket mentioned previously, but couldn't find it by searching.

[ashe]

Originally Posted by startrekker2001

I have had problems with the lock on my 78 Excella. The problem was simple and was fixed by a competent welder for $10 and once for a six pack. The replacement kit will cost around $150 or more and require cutting the door to get it to fit.

Take the door handle out and check out the bolt plate sub assembly. The ears on the assembly are probably broken off or the bolt is broken off the assembly. In either case, it can be fixed by a welder and it will be worth the effort. Thank the Airstream gods you have a 78 and not a 77 which would cost over $700 for the kit. I am attaching the page from the 78 Excella manual that covers the lock.

Vic

Vic,
Just had a chance to read your suggestion. Thanks and I think it is a good idea. Is the lock something that is straight forward to take out (not very mechancial)?

[startrekker2001]

The lock is easy to take out. The lock has to be disassembled which is a little more difficult. If you know someone with a little more mechanical skill, you may want to have them do it. I had no experience and had no problem. If you do it yourself, take pictures with a digital camera so you can see how it came apart. Might help putting it back together. In any case, you will need a professional to put the new lock since, I understand, it requires modifying the opening in the door.

As for taking the lock out, there are three screws on the inside and two on the door edge. The disassembly of the lock itself is a little more complicated. But not too much.

Look at it this way. You are going to spend a bunch 'o money for the replacement and installation. Here is your opportunity to expand your knowledge about your unit. You have nothing to loose and everything to gain. GO FOR IT! GIT'r DONE!

If you want the users and owners manuals, I have them on-line for my 78 Excella. Here is the link
1978 Airstream Excella 500 Manuals

You can download them in pdf format.

Vic