Got the door grab handle off-yippi

[perryg114]

Well I had my inner skin off to the right the door to find some leaks and I decided to figure out how to remove the door grab handle that has a dead bolt lock in the top with a real residential door cylinder on it. The bottom of the handle has a door bell push button in it. I was pleased to find out the handle was easy to remove once cleaned on the Worthless White Crap (WWC) that Airstream calls a sealer. There were two 1/4-20 screw studs at the top and bottom of the handle.

The PO had lost the key and ruined the lock core by drilling holes in it. I was going to take it too a lock smith but I did not want to take the whole trailer. I maybe able to fix it myself since it is a standard lock core. I will probably polish the handle while I have it off. I wonder should I clear coat it or leave it bare?

I have been wanting to fix this lock so I don't have to use the junky in the door lock. Also the dead bolt does a better job of securing the trailer door so it does not open going down the road.

Perry

[Aerowood]

My trailer had a real attractive hasp on it to keep the door closed.

[idroba]

It should be a Schlage cylineder in your lock. You might want to take the handle to a locksmith to get the right one installed. It is not a difficult installation, but someone who does it every day can get it in right, and fast. Much better than putting it back in and then finding some problems. I agree, it is a good lock and deadbolt system, well worth the repair.

[perryg114]

I went to the locksmith and he ordered a new cylinder to replace the one the PO butchered. Maybe we should add this to the Airstream truths. All owners other than the current owner are idiots.

Perry

[Aviator]

......All owners other than the current owner are idiots.....

Good one Perry

[perryg114]

Well I am $42 pour and still don't have a lock that fits. Slug has changed the OD of the lock and the location of the mounting screws. I can make it fit but kinda pissed. I have a lock core that I could have made to fit and I already had that one. I will have to make an adapter ring to center the lock in the handle.

Perry

[trekerboy]

Originally Posted by perryg114

Well I am $42 pour and still don't have a lock that fits. Slug has changed the OD of the lock and the location of the mounting screws. I can make it fit but kinda pissed. I have a lock core that I could have made to fit and I already had that one. I will have to make an adapter ring to center the lock in the handle.

Perry

Hi Perry, just wanted to see if you were ever able to resolve your lock issue? I am facing a similar problem with my 1979 Excella 31'. If I read your OP correctly, you had to remove the interior skin in order to remove the handle; is that correct?