170B inside door handles

[timofly]

I'm looking at a 1954 170B that has no inside door handles. Were they built that way? Would it be a big deal to install same? I dislike the idea that you have to open the window to egress the airplane. Could be an issue in a "time-sensitive" situation. Thanks.

[Bruce Fenstermacher]

Assuming the inside door structure is there and not modified, it would not be a big deal to replace the missing parts. The big deal might be finding the parts.

Where are you located in NJ?

[blueldr]

Many years ago when I first got my airplane, the inside door handles were in bad shape, I tried for a long time to find suitable replacements that matched the origibal equipment. Finally, in desperation, I bought a set of universal replacement automobile door handles stocked on a "HELP" blister card at Pep Boys Auto supply. They lock in place with an allen set screw on the spline shaft. They look very classy, and do a dandy job. However, George and the "Original" folks pale and become nauseated at the sight of them. Dealers choice, I guess.

[Bruce Fenstermacher]

Sounds like he's missing more than just the door handles BL.

The splined shaft and associated hardware is easy to remove and replace assuming you can find those parts and the door hasn't been modified so that they could not be reinstalled. I would doubt the door has been modified but there is always that possibility.