911 Locked Out!!!

[Pete Masterson]

What year? Most BBs have two door locks. An "automotive" lock and a
home-style keyed dead bolt.

The dead bolt lock is installed much like any home-type door lock. If
it is broken/jammed, then a locksmith can probably open it for you,
even if it has to be drilled out (worst case). In most cases, the
dead bolt lock is also operated by the electronic keypad (if you bird
has one) and even if the key isn't working, the entry code may work.

The automotive lock is another matter. It is locked by pushing down
on the plunger at the bottom of the window. It has several long rods
and cams inside the door that all have to be aligned properly for it
to work. Over the years, wear and tear has caused my automotive lock
to not work correctly. I opened up the door, cleaned and lubricated
the various pieces and discovered that no matter what adjustments I
made, a particular piece would not move as expected. Installation of
a bungee cord to overcome the wear in the components solved the
problem -- but I know that the bungee cord will fail sometime in the
future.

When the automotive-style lock was acting up, I found that with
somewhat more effort than normal -- and by 'jiggling' the key I was
able to get the automotive lock to open. Be careful! It's a fine line
between forcing a recalcitrant lock and breaking the key off in the
lock!!

Sometimes, thoroughly lubricating the lock with graphite will help.
Do not use WD-40. Eventually, WD-40 will cause a lock to gum up,
making matters worse down the line. Most graphite is sold with a
'puff' top. You can squeeze the sides of the container an puff a
quantity into the lock. Also put some all over the key and poke it in
and out of the lock and try turning it. This will usually loosen
things up.

Actually, a locksmith with automotive experience may be exactly who
to call...

Then, there's always a brick. Try to pick out a "cheap" window. (Flat
pieces of glass are best.)

Pete Masterson
'95 Blue Bird Wanderlodge WBDA 42
aeonix1@...
On the road at Lockhart, Texas



On Nov 11, 2007, at 11:05 AM, John McGinnis wrote:

> I'm locked out of my coach, all windows are shut tight, door handle
> snaped off in my hand. Door locks seem to function. It must be
> locked
> on the inside, furnances are running, need help. Any suggestions
> other
> then a brick!! Door handle mechinisim does not seem to function
> properly. Who should I call, I don't think a lock smith is the
> answer.
> John McGinnis
> 800-781-8040
>