Re: REFLECTOR: Door Locks Plans

["Mike Schmitt Sr." <masa2@psci.net>]

dennis   thanks for the offer. if you want to save postage maby make some
copies and have them available at oshkosh at the velocity booth? or my
address is
mike schmitt sr
1413 s meridian rd
jasper, in 47546-3831

thanks  72mike
-----Original Message-----
From: Dennis Martin <dmartin@cougar.netutah.net>
To: reflector@awpi.com <reflector@awpi.com>
Date: Monday, June 28, 1999 11:16 PM
Subject: REFLECTOR: Door Locks Plans


>In response to several who requested drawings for dual locking doors on
>Elite models, please post your address so I can snail-mail a copy.  Please
>respond within a week so I can mail everybody at once.
>
>Mods solved two problems.
>
>1) Although the plans show how to create one auto locking door (passenger
>side only), I wanted both doors locked automatically when you pull the
>handle shut.  I wanted the same auto lock system on the pilot's side, but
>with keyed lock included.   Although the plans don't show how, it's simple
>to install the keyed lock inside the kit-supplied lock assembly.  One of my
>drawings details this.
>
>2) Because of a unique bend in my push rod, I couldn't mount the lock
>collar as called for in the plans.  Also, I got too aggressive in removing
>foam for the push rod.  The result was slightly too much gap to allow the
>lock collar to engage the pin.  If you have either of these problems, my
>plans show a simple mod using an easy-to-make metal strap.
>
>If you want to lock both doors, you need to order a second lock assembly
>from Velocity WITHOUT the keyed lock.  (One keyed lock is part of the door
>lock assembly included in the kit).
>
>In the event of a forced landing, I know there is some risk in locking both
>doors.  I choose to take that risk given the history of several accidents
>(NOT in Velocities) from doors opening in flight.  Did I read recently
>about a Velocity at a "fly-in" having to make a forced landing because of a
>door opening in flight?   Anyone know which door opened, and why?
>
>I just saw this in this week's AVweb's on-line magazine:
>"A search of the NTSB database revealed eight accidents involving open
>doors in Aztecs.  AVweb takes this opportunity to suggest that Aztec
>pilots verify the door is closed and LOCKED . . ."
>
>P.S.  Using a 3 inch stainless steel pin, there is an easy way to disengage
>the pilot's auto-lock as part of your landing check list.  I expect I'll do
>that.
>
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