dead bolt?

[uncledan]

Sorry if this is a stupid question but it wouldn't be my first.
We recently adopted a 66 Caravel that has what appears to be a dead bolt but it has latches on both sides, it's not keyed, and no longer has a bolt. Are they all like this?

[Jim Foster]

Our '65 Caravel has a dead bolt in the same location as yours, key on the outside, knob on the inside. Looks and works just like the one at home except it is located farther from the edge on the trailer. The bolt mechanism itself wore out and I was able to get a replacement at a local lock shop for $20.00.

[Grand Master]

My '63 Trade Wind is like yours...... a knob latch on both sides. I have considered replacing with one that is keyed on the outside, but not sure if it is an exact swap so as not to leave visible marks on the door.

[Jim Foster]

Should interchange.

[Beaker63]

Uncledan,
Mine is keyed on the outside with a latch inside, as Jim says, just like on your house. Got mine from VTS
Tim

[uncledan]

My bolt is missing from the dead bolt, I have no idea where it would have gone to unless it was thrown overboard by the previous owner, it looks like it was round. I'm assuming a replacement would come with a new one?

[Jammer]

The deadbolts from VTS include a household-style bolt which is larger than the original. It would be necessary to cut the door to install one. I don't know if the original bolt assembly is available anywhere.

There have been a number of incidents reported on this forum where the door has come open while traveling, leading to considerable damage. The bolt is intended to prevent that. Some forum members are using a wedge-shaped block of wood that fits under the grab handle instead. A search should turn up details if you want to consider that alternative.

[TG Twinkie]

My guess would be; the dead bolt was used to keep the door from coming open going down the road. Not to provide security. Don't know why the bolt is missing unless it didn't line up with the hole in the jam and was removed.