Re: [VAC] New Members

[Charlie/Betty Burke <burke@xxxxxxxxxx>]

Airstream still has the parts made for that lockset. It can be purchased through
any Airstream dealer or at the plant in Jackson Center. Now, be prepared for a
shock at the price of the part. That lockset was made by a company called KT
Lock. They went out of business in the late '80's early 90's. The shape of that
lockset is so different from anything else that Airstream was unable to find a
suitable replacement. As a result they are having the parts made, hand made. As
a result they are quite expensive. The complete lockset has a suggested retail
of over $500 dollars. Individual parts are readily available and the lock is
relatively simple. We have rebuilt them on several occasions with good results.
The handle is held on to the vertical shaft with two very small rolled steel
pins. Unless you are sure of a local source you may want to order them at the
time you get the handle.
The most common reason the handle breaks is because the bolt catches on the edge
of the strike pocket when someone grabs it to open it, usually someone not
familiar with the coach. Most of us that own one develop the habit of pressing
on the door with a thumb or the like before pulling the handle. If you will look
closely at the bolt you will likely find there is a notch or groove in it. This
is because the door move in the frame when towing. The fix is to build in a
filler shim into the strike pocket so that the bolt bears on a larger surface.
Hope this helps.

Charlie