M20 F Door Latch Replacement 67 M20F

[MrRodgers]

Hi everyone.

1967 M20 F question

I have noticed lately that my door latch (Interior) handle is loose and has a substantial amount of play in it while opening from the inside. 

The exterior handle as well also seems a bit hard to close.  A few weeks ago I became locked inside the plane as the door just would not open.  I had to work my way to the baggage compartment and slide out through that door which at 6ft 3 inches and 215 lbs was not an easy maneuver. I called over a mechanic and he greased the various latch points and it all works well now but I have lingering concerns.  I am wondering if anyone knows of a replacement kit that can be easily installed.  Also, is there a kit for creating an escape handle for the baggage compartment door?  Any guidance is appreciated.

Michael Rodgers

[N201MKTurbo]

There is usually no parts that need replacing, you just need to take the plastic off the door so you can get to the mechanism. Then lubricate and adjust as necessary. You should replace the roll pin in the handle with a Clevis pin.

Edited June 10, 2018 by N201MKTurbo

[carusoam]

1) There are updates to the baggage door latch system to improve the emergency exit of the baggage door...

Check with Lasar to see what you have that can be upgraded with what they have... there is a thread around here with a lot of detail...

 

2) The cabin entry door design has changed some over the years but even the early 60s design was reliable at opening and closing...

There are probably some wear items that can be replaced.  Parts that may have got bent. And stuff like that...  maintenance and parts manuals will be helpful to do the research for what you have...

I think Joe was experimenting with a bent aluminum project for improving the handle.... there may be some interesting ideas in that thread...

 

3) One MSer has reported getting another window in a window to open for ventilation on the ground... also works very well as a method of acccessing the door handle from the outside....   

I think Bob posted a picture recently of the extra vent window....

PP thoughts only,

-a-