Inspired by Mstroud66's (https://www.lazydazeowners.com/index.php?topic=36742.msg248333#msg248333) post about replacing the door lock on her 2003 MB with a T505, I took the plunge and made the change as well, since I, too have a 2003 MB.
I tried to repair my original floppy handled door lock by purchasing new springs since the originals were broken in pieces, and some pieces were lost on the ground when I opened the lock. I purchased a couple of packages of various-sized springs, trying to find the correct ones. That didn't work out very well. Also, I never had a key for the door lock. I would have to use the dead bolt.
My brother and sister-in-law did a lot of the work with me. We did have to make some modifications:
- The new strike plate was taller than the original, so we had to cut away a bit or the doorway frame to get the old strike plate out., and the new one in. Also, needed to drill a higher screw hole for the taller plate.
- The prongs (I can't think of the actual name) that fit into the strike plate are thicker than on the original lock. So we had to bore out larger holes (with a Dremel type tool) so we could screw the prongs into the lock on the door.
- The interior door lock knob, interfered with the screen door. I could not get the door to close properly. There would be the slightest gap that allowed moisture to build up on the door (from the Texas humidity). I removed the knob altogether and would lock the door with pliers. BTW, I could still use my dead bolt with no problem.
- In an effort to work around the knob, I tried removing parts of the screen door. I tried carving out a notch in the screen door frame. In the end I found another solution..
- After some Googling, I was able to find a replacement lever (http://dyersonline.com/trimark-rv-lock-long-dead-bolt-lever.html#review-form). It works perfectly! I like that it is red and easy to see.
I'm very happy with the outcome!
I found the correct springs to tighten up the latch at an Ace hardware store. They carry a large assortment of springs.
Larry
For anyone looking for a no-hassle source for the springs, these were an exact fit for our '04:
uxcell Compression Spring,304 Stainless Steel,6mm OD,0.7mm Wire Size,25mm... (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076LRJH99?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title)
Steve
Hi Debbie; My lock has a worn out metal block inside the lock that makes the key not work, and not reliable. I could take the block out and re-machine a piece, or find a junk lock with a not as worn part. So far I just use the deadbolt.
The handle lock is really easy to pick anyway.
I did buy this: Amazon.com: ONNAIS Full Metal RV Keyless Entry Door Lock with Password &... (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CBP7LD9D?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title) but the instructions were hampered by a poor translation to English. Nearly incomprehensible! I managed to scramble the password (combination) so it is sitting waiting for me to contact the factory to fix that issue. (some cold winter day inside) The hardware is incompatible with the present Bargeman lock, door and frame. Any modifications would be arduous and prevent returning to the lock set I have now. Maybe some other locks would be compatible with the altered door and frame.
Another thing I encountered that seemed really dumb, is that the remotes contain a key that bypasses the combination on the door lock. So if you lose it and someone else finds the remote, they can get into your rig whether you change the combination or not! And the key is an integral part of the remote, so that if you remove the key, you have to come up with a way to put the remote somewhere, or to hang it on a key ring. An interloper could also change the combination on you. (good luck with doing that! Even with the instructions, not so easy!)
Maybe I'll try that Trimark T505. RonB
Wow Ron,
When I started reading, I thought, "Sweet!, A combo lock that would work on an LD". Now, I'm sad that it didn't work out.
I like the Trimark, but I've had to get used to holding the latch open to close the door. With my old lock, I could just close it.
I purchased four blank Trimark keys, so that I can have some cut and left with family members for emergencies, and one hidden elsewhere outside of my LD.
If I can be of any assistance, please let me know!