[VAC] Re: Body Panel Installation (Door Locks)

["Dr. Gerald N. Johnson, electrical engineer" <geraldj@xxxxxxxxxx>]

I don't' know about the 70 Airstreams, but my '68 Caravel uses a lock
that can be partly replaced by a standard Bargman L-100 or L-200, if the
tongue (bolt) is replaced by a special long one. Last year I bought both
from the A/S dealer at St. Louis for about $65. Assembled they asked
$250, but the long tongue was only $12 and one can often find the
Bargman lock for $40. It has a round knob on the outside instead of the
custom Airstream knob. Check back in the archives, I believe I posted
the Bargman lock number and the tongue part number here last year. I've
not put the new lock in yet, I've cleaned up and lubricated the original
lock and now it seems to lock from the inside. Now I need to find keys
to fit. They didn't come with the trailer and some previous owner added
a hideous hasp and turnbutton. I don't know if I will fix the old lock
and add a dead bolt (on the frame side sticking its bolt into the door)
or install the new lock and add a dead bolt. One project among many that
I want to do.

Gerald J.