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Topic: Re: Fire exit hatch crank handle malfunction (Read 678 times) previous topic - next topic
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Re: Fire exit hatch crank handle malfunction
Quote from: kvc  - 
Hello LD community. I have a couple of items I need help with so I thought I would ask those with experience.

Taking the LD out for a Sunday afternoon drive I heard a flapping. Looked up and noted the fire exit/escape hatch lid flapping in the wind. Failed trying too close it due to no pin in the handle assembly, it took more than a few minutes for me to figure it out I must admit. The crank handle turned with no effect on the lid and it felt loose.  Looked for it and no dice.

I noted one of Larry Wade's project securing the lid with wire for a temporary fix. I called the factory and mailed a check for a replacement for fire exit/escape hatch crank handle and latch assembly. Not sure how long it will take for it to arrive here. Wanted to find a replacement for the "pin" at the hardware store and was hoping someone could describe what I would be looking for.

Does the "pin" have a flat edge to it to catch the "teeth" of the crank?
I have the crank handle to take with me into the store.
If the wiring method would keep it securely shut I can live with that until replacement parts arrive.
Wanting to go camping with friends in a few days and strong rain is in the forecast.

Second issue, while on the roof I noted that the sealant around the fire escape hatch had several round holes in the sealant. It was only visible with the lid in the raised position. The roof was sealed last year at a RV repair shop. The previous seam seal had paint over the sealant and it was like trying to remove concrete so I decided to save my knee's and wrist and paid someone to do it for me. I assuming the holes are bubbles that surfaced. Can I clean the sealant with soap and water, let it dry and use Dicor to fill in the air bubble holes?

Looks like I will be adding baling wire, wire cutters, and vice grips to my emergency repair kit. Other items are large heavy duty trash bag, cardboard and tape for repairing damaged vents.
Thank you for your time and advise. Kimberley from Kansas
2000 Mid Bath
Re: Fire exit hatch crank handle malfunction
Reply #1 –
Found a screw post to replace the pin for the crank handle. Held up well. Thought I would share these images.
2000 Mid Bath
Re: Fire exit hatch crank handle malfunction
Reply #2 –
Clever solution. Find out from whoever did the sealing what compound they used. If you can't find that product, at least use something with compatible chemistry.

Steve
2004 FL
2013 Honda Fit
Re: Re: Fire exit hatch crank handle malfunction
Reply #3 –
KVC,
I have a 94' Daze...the plastic handle that I had on the escape hatch cracked and broke.  Can you point me to the crank handle?  I see the screw. 
1994 Twin King
Re: Fire exit hatch crank handle malfunction
Reply #4 –
Hi ChrisB; I would hit my head on that crank handle that hung down too low. That handle is easily replaced at online RV parts stores. Instead I used a round handle. (Same size screw), that doesn't hang down as low, and also doesn't catch my hair. (can't afford to lose any more hair).  RonB  (at Jalama Beach just 30' from the water).

and Kim, that pivot pin is a hardened steel "roll pin" available in standard lengths and diameters at Home Depot, etc.
    I put a small screw and washers, nut with locktite, through the center to keep the roll pin in place.
RonB (Bostick) living in San Diego
Original owner of "Bluebelle" a '99 TKB
Re: Fire exit hatch crank handle malfunction
Reply #5 –

Here is a replacement knob that fits the escape cover lift.

Amazon.com: RV Designer H715, Plastic Window Knob, 2-1/4 inch Diameter, 1/2...
Not sure if the OP was referring to this or the Red lock that holds the escape hatch down.

Larry

As an Amazon Associate Lazy Daze Owners' Group earns from qualifying purchases.
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
Re: Fire exit hatch crank handle malfunction
Reply #6 –
Chris B,
The "pin" kept falling out and I would hear air while driving coming in from the lid of the fire escape lifting up.
I would have to look for it in the bedding and was frustrating.
This has stayed in much better, still have to check it and make sure that it tight.
I usually check it along the wheel skirt washer and nuts.

The only plastic part I believe on my 2000 LD is the red sliding latch and the handle is metal.

Hope you find a solution, that fire escape lid can sure get beat up in the wind. I would find a way to secure it.
Kimberley
2000 Mid Bath
Re: Re: Fire exit hatch crank handle malfunction
Reply #7 –
Fixed-Thanks Larry
1994 Twin King