Window Latches - What to use?

[amacbean]

I have some great window latches installed on our plane - the only problem is they are not certified. I really don't want to put original style latches on unless I have to because I like to open the window all the way. What is everyone else using for latches that they got approved, besides the original latches? If I have to use the original style latches, where is the best place to get them? Thanks!

[Bruce Fenstermacher]

Who is making you change you latches?

Original latches are expensive. Some original parts can be found at Univair. Possibly all the parts but like I said you won't like the price. Other than that occasionally you can find used stuff but most of it is shot.

[amacbean]

The local FSDO guy came down to inspect another modification on the airplane and noticed that the window latches aren't original. Turns out, after a little research, they are actually from a later model 172, but they were never approved to be installed on my airplane. No one even made a logbook entry. Now that we know what they are, we're in the approval process and I think I'll be ok. The jury is still out on the control wheels that are installed currently.

Thanks though!

[Bruce Fenstermacher]

Yep you have to love those "complete logs". Sounds like your going through the process of approval on other stuff so I'd try that route first.

So your "lucky" to find a FSDO guy who knows whats supposed to be there. Don't know it that's good or bad.

[amacbean]

Update on the window latches - the FSDO said no to the newer 172 latches. They want the originals back on. The reason they gave is that the original restrict the window from opening all the way. We could approve the 172 latches if we had the same setup as a 172, with the little strut that holds the window from opening all the way. There just isn't any real good way to do that because of the way the 172/182 window frames are made with a slot for the strut to travel in. Lame. We could get it approved with a DER, and that's probably what I'll do in the future, but for now it's original latches. I did find some at the local airport. The DER would have to prove things like the window won't bang into the wing when open (which it doesn't), that it won't come off and hit the rudder or elevators (like the little strut or the old latches are going to keep it on any better if the upper hinge breaks off), that there isn't any more force applied to the window when open all the way as apposed to when it's open only a little way, airspeed restrictions, placarding, etc.

Anyway, just thought I'd let you know what happened.

[GAHorn]

What bizarre reasoning they offered you! What if the latch broke and the window flew up and hit the wing? What about the numerous 172's with the later latch that are allowed to operate with the limiter removed/disabled so a photographer can get the window out of the way?
What if you installed a short cable to limt the window's opening? Would they approve it then? What if you simply added a placard prohibiting opening the window in flight?

[blueldr]

I think George has the right idea. Placard it. Then if that a-----e FUZZ in spector ever rides with you and attempts to open the window, file on him.