BAC Forum

General Boards => General Discussion => Topic started by: Mike Shumack on September 14, 2018, 05:49:01 PM

Title: Did Beaver switch basement door latches to an automotive "post" style?
Post by: Mike Shumack on September 14, 2018, 05:49:01 PM

I saw video (YouTube "For Sale" walkaround) where the sales guy went around and was able to "slam shut" the basement doors. I know I can't do that on my 2005. I forget the year of the coach now - maybe 2008 or 09?

I tried to zoom in on the video but could see much - however it looked like the basement doors had "posts" like a car door rather than the wedge style locks (see photo) that my Patriot uses. I have use the "Beaver bump" to get my doors closed.

Did Beaver change lock styles sometime after 2005?

Title: Re: Did Beaver switch basement door latches to an automotive "post" style?
Post by: David T. Richelderfer on September 14, 2018, 10:22:56 PM

Mike - First, I do not know the answer to your question.  Our coach basement doors have the same latch as shown in your picture.  We have replaced two latches on the same trip due to the nylon point breaking off, and we purchased two plus a third latch as a spare.   I'm thinking the nylon points get brittle after 10 or 12 years.

I used to always slam the basement doors shut - broke the two latches slamming the doors shut fortunately on different doors so we didn't have a door flapping in the breeze while traveling.  Since replacing the two latches I make sure to slowly close the doors, then pull the handle to retract the nylon points, then push the door on into position.  Usually, I can get one latch to catch and have to Beaver knee the other side closed.  If memory serves, those latches cost about $15 each.

Title: Re: Did Beaver switch basement door latches to an automotive "post" style?
Post by: Steve Huber Co-Admin on September 14, 2018, 11:31:46 PM

Mike,
When Monaco went to the horizontal opening bay doors they changed to a different latching mechanism.
Steve

Title: Re: Did Beaver switch basement door latches to an automotive "post" style?
Post by: Keith Moffett on September 15, 2018, 08:43:36 AM

Ours uses post latches !

Title: Re: Did Beaver switch basement door latches to an automotive "post" style?
Post by: Bob Stone on September 15, 2018, 10:22:19 AM

Mike you might wish to consider replacing the bin door latches with those available from RV Storage Door Latches as advertised each month in the FMCA Magazine. (September issue page 102) The plastic plunger has been replaced with one of solid aluminum. I've replaced a couple and believe they will outlive the coach.
www.motorhomelatches.com


Bob

Title: Re: Did Beaver switch basement door latches to an automotive "post" style?
Post by: Mike Shumack on September 15, 2018, 11:01:04 AM

Good idea. Thanks.
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