[Date Prev][Date Next][Thread Prev][Thread Next][Date Index][Thread Index]
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