Left Door Latch Removal

[Abe]

Trying to replace the Door Latch return spring (PN# 0511119) in the left door. It seems that the two pop rivots at the latch end have to be removed to start the process. But, before I take it out the way it seems to have to come out, I wanted to ask you all, what is the proper way to get the latch out so I can replace the return spring? Thanks again!

[Bruce Fenstermacher]

Yes, you must drill out those rivets at the latch. I personally replace them with soft pop rivets so they can be easily removed next time.

[Abe]

Thanks Bruce, and I've found they don't give away those return springs either. But, this all gives a guy something to do.

[GAHorn]

Abe... did you see the alternative solution offered by one of our fellow Members using ordinary tension springs?

Click to ENLARGE

[Abe]

I wasn't aware of this option, but I sure like the looks of them in your photos. Where does a guy go to get more info on them?

[GAHorn]

Bill......you just saw all there is to know. Get some springs and so-modify yours.

[Joe Moilanen]

Howdy Abe,

Those pics were from my 170B, I got the springs from Ace Hardware, cant remember the #'s but they have a lot to chose from and it's not really rocket science. Seems like a more practical spring set-up than the mousetrap springs.

Is Minam's Ranch still open??

Joe

[blueldr]

Some previous owner of one of my C-170Bs apparently removed the upholstery on the left hand door and bored a hole in the inside aluminum to reach in there to work on the lock. The latch was repaired as shown in the pictures with two small coil springs and the switch and door lock had a common key, which is rather uncommon on these old airplanes.

[Abe]

Howdy Joe, nice set up on your door latch. Always something to do on our birds. New owners at Minam and the new owners just begun major renovation about 10-days ago. Three inches of old crunchy snow that makes landing interesting. RAF, IAA, & OPA and others are doing a voluntary airlift for the new owners on April 14-15 with a BBQ for those participating at Minam on the 14th. A briefing will be held at 8:30 AM on the 14th for those participating. Come on over and I'll high grade your door latch springs and buy you a beer. May have to put together another 170 flyin together in there next year.

[Joe Moilanen]

I'd love to make it ABE but I'll be in Florida on the 14th. Gotta thaw out my bone marrow for a week. I'll get a hold of you when I can make it to Minam's and we'll have a brew or two.

See ya soon I hope!!

Joe

[GAHorn]

Howdy Abe,

Those pics were from my 170B, I got the springs from Ace Hardware, cant remember the #'s but they have a lot to chose from and it's not really rocket science. Seems like a more practical spring set-up than the mousetrap springs.

Is Minam's Ranch still open??

Joe

By the way, Joe... I hope you didn't feel slighted when I didn't mention you by NAME for coming up with that fantastic solution... I never know when an owner wants to share info...but doesn't want attention drawn to their personal aircraft solutions (if you know what I mean.)

THANK YOU for sharing the super idea and sending the photos! I've sent them privately to dozens who've faced this problem ..and kept your notoriety secret!

-George

[Joe Moilanen]

Thanks George, no problem!(;

Joe

[cowboy]

Found this in the Cessna 172 (1963-1974) Parts Manual, page 200. Just incase anyone is looking for a basis of "approval" for the different spring type. Man, that would have to be a REALLY diligent FED to take a door apart in the first place!

[Bruce Fenstermacher]

Hey Cowboy, that is a GREAT catch. I'm so relieved to find I'm not that much of a renegade after all.

[Poncho73]

I'm looking for the left door catch I believe part number 0411552. Mine has worn/fractured at the pivot pin. Anyone have one or know where I can get one? Aircraft is in the Toronto area. Thanks