Interior Door Handle Came off last night

[RFP]

Originally Posted by waninae39

the handle is a cheap cast part.

go through this forum . there are many suggestion on how to
1. make the handle better
2. access the door to open , if the handle breaks again

Actually, among the 'RV things' that can be hugely problematical (and there are many!), an effective and permanent 'fix' to the door handle problem may be the easiest to do. Tapping the hole (that is already there) and using a fender washer and machine screw is easy, cheap, and very effective.

The handle doesn't break in the sense that most of us thing of something breaking. The swedging of the handle to the flat actuator plate fails, and needlessly so. For less than a quarter, the manufacturer could affix the handle to the actuator plate just as recommended here, and their product would last for eons.

[Mollysdad]

The basic problem is the handle is not designed to be used to pull the door closed. I know that's counterintuitive, since it's the only handle, but the press fit is good for up/down not pull/push.
The solution, in addition to the tap and screw, is to put a handle for pulling on the door.
This image is by sheriff1 and he did a great job.
When selecting a handle, remember it has to clear the sliding screen port.

[DocHalo]

Originally Posted by RFP

Good morning, Doc !

This should get you started: https://www.airforums.com/forums/f45...ml#post2193874

If you have more questions, just send me a PM, you can do this!

Rob

Thanks, Rob! Wonderfully helpful and timely leadership and direction! Cheers!

[steilkurve]

Originally Posted by Rubeyjj

Well after posting that our handle fell off, I was contacted by Airstream and they sent me new parts, which appear to be assembled much better. In fact they sent more than I had requested, which is great if I ever have other issues. So by exceeding my expectations I am very happy again! (Nice job Michael)

Would you happen to know what the new part number is? I'd like to buy it as a spare.

Also, anyone knows if it's been introduced in trailers coming off the line and if so as of when?

[rich.dev]

Thanks to all in this thread as well.....
https://www.airforums.com/forums/f45...le-199246.html
and
https://www.airforums.com/forums/f45...od-150277.html

I just completed the door handle support, I also added an extra handle. As already said, very simple improvement indeed.

To support the back of the door handle I used:
1. #10 x 3/4" metal screw, I did not use a self tapping screw...the hole is already there, screw went in nice and tight, and I also added Loctite.
2. 1/2" flat washer to fit over the square handle end
3. 3/16 fender washer

I got the extra door handle from HD and used 2 x washers for extra support of the screw heads.