Door popping open in flight

[peter]

I've been having some challenges this year with the door on my 231 popping open in flight.  After it popped open a couple of times earlier this year, I recently had it adjusted at a MSC.  That was three flights ago, and on my most recent cross-country it popped open again on departure while climbing through 11,000 feet. Previously it has popped open in the pattern and on descent, so no real pattern on when it will occur.

Any suggestions on things to look for or pointers I can share with my local (non-MSC) A&P?

Thanks!

[Bennett]

Two ideas: 1. For my 231/261 I had LASAR install an additional pin that helped resist the tendencey for the door to be sucked open.  I don't know if this pin arrangement is still available, but the faster Bonanzas and Mooneys I knew of some 10 years ago had them installed. 2. When I had my new interior installed on my current M20J the upholsterer used a thicker door seal, and while the door latch inside the airplane clearly latched, the door opened up in flight several times. Dan at LASAR fixed this by adjusting the "ball" end on the receiving bolt at the top of the doorway. The catch is made up of this ball, and a clawlike device at the top of the door.  The latch causes the claw to surround and "grab" the ball.  On the ground the door seemed secure, but the claw never really captured the ball - just held it by friction. the solution was to move the ball slightly outboard.  No further problems since then.

[jlunseth]

Although I don't know how to make the adjustment, I am told it is a simple adjustment.  My plane did the same thing and Willmar Air Service fixed it for me.  Haven't had the problem since and it has been a couple of years.  Top latch was letting go as soon as the plane picked up speed and the airflow over the outside of the aircraft resulted in a reduction air pressure on that side of the door.  Annoying.  The inflight air pressure is sufficient that you cannot fully open the door, but it is also enough that you can't relatch it either, if the latch is not working right.

I would have your MSC call Brian Negen at Willmar and consult.

[RJBrown]

You may not be fully closing the door. I push up on the top center to check that it is latched once closed. MOST passengers don't close and latch the door properly. 

[peter]

Thanks all for the input.  I would like to add the upper pin someday - Jerry also says it makes a big difference on cabin  noise levels.