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Re: REFLECTOR: Door Locks Plans



You don't see much of me on the reflector but I would appreciate the
drawings of the dual locking doors.  I'm building a 173 RG Elite(very
slowly).

Bob Gammon   Wichita,Ks.
bgamm11@juno.com


On Mon, 28 Jun 1999 22:08:52 -0600 dmartin@cougar.netutah.net (Dennis
Martin) writes:
>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.
>
>
>
>
>

Bob Gammon
bgamm11@juno.com