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Topic: Generator latch release not working. (Read 618 times) previous topic - next topic

Generator latch release not working.

Any ideas on adjusting the latch mechanism to open the generator access door? Is there even an adjustment possible? How can I bypass it if necessary?
Build 5477
99 3602 WTFE U270C

Re: Generator latch release not working.

Reply #1 –
Maybe a different latch system than we have, are they stuck at the key insert, or will not open once it's unlocked?  :-\
1993 U-240 "La Villa Grande"..CAT 3116 w/ Pacbrake PRXB...Allison 3060 6-speed..
Previous: 1983 Airstream 310 turbo diesel, 1979 Airstream 280 turbo diesel
                                      Build # 4297
                                      PNW natives
                      Home base:  'Cactus Hug' (Ajo, Arizona)
                        DW Judy & Chet the wonder dog
                        Full-Timers 'Sailing the asphalt sea'

Re: Generator latch release not working.

Reply #2 –
Its a cable with a t handle similar to a hood release on a car.
Build 5477
99 3602 WTFE U270C

Re: Generator latch release not working.

Reply #3 –
Call me and we will get it open.

Rudy 7 one 3. 8 one 8. 3234
Rudy Legett
2003 U320 4010 ISM 450 hp
2001 U320 4220 ISM 450 hp
1995 U320 M11 400 hp
1990 Granvilla 300 hp 3208T
Aqua Hot Service Houston and Southeast Texas

Re: Generator latch release not working.

Reply #4 –
Assuming you have the T-handle setup.

We regularly spray-lub our cables at handle, latches, every pivot including the air strut ends, as well as ends of the round top pivot bar.  Even then most of the time, it hangs on opening, so our normal is while holding T-handle out, reach around and lightly bang on top right outside corner with the other hand.

To manually open, I assume the door cable or latches can be reached and pulled down from an advantage point on the ground looking up with a flashlight and coat hanger with a hook on the end.  Maybe doing the coat hanger with someone holding the T-handle would even work better.

Re: Generator latch release not working.

Reply #5 –
I spoke with Rudy who gave me similar instructions. Since I keep the coach at a storage site I'll recruit a second pair of hands and try everyone's suggestions. Thanks for the advice.
Build 5477
99 3602 WTFE U270C

Re: Generator latch release not working.

Reply #6 –
I see I am not the only one with this problem.  Several yanks on the T-handle and the left side releases, pull on the door, more yanks again on the T-handle and then the right side releases. 
Jerry Whiteaker former owner 96 U270  36' #4831 Austin,TX-Owner Mods LCD TV w/front cabinet rebuild - LCD TV bedroom - Dual Central AC, either can cool coach w 30 amp - Skylights at roof AC openings - Drop ceiling for ducting of AC - Shower skylight white gelcoat/wood/epoxy frame - Air Springs/Shocks replaced - 2014 CRV - 8K Home Solar - Chevy Volt

Re: Generator latch release not working.

Reply #7 –
Quote from: Jerry Whiteaker –
I see I am not the only one with this problem.  Several yanks on the T-handle and the left side releases, pull on the door, more yanks again on the T-handle and then the right side releases. 

Mine use to open just fine. Until I messed with the adjustments to snug it up and make it more flush with the frontend. Now I need to reach around with my left hand and bang on it until it pops open.
Doug W.
96 36' U270 CSGI #4946
04 Toyota Tacoma 4x4
PNW

Re: Generator latch release not working.

Reply #8 –
Mine was a problem, took several pulls on the T-handle before it would open. Lubricated the cable and latches, no more problem.
Dennis & Martha Harrell
2000 Foretravel U320
2014 GMC 4X4 Sierra Crew Cab Pickup

Re: Generator latch release not working.

Reply #9 –
Well I got the compartment door open. Had to resort to popping the latches manually laying underneath. After lubricating the latches and everywhere else I could , the door pops right open.We'll see how long it lasts. At least I know how to get it open in a pinch. Thanks for all the advice.
Build 5477
99 3602 WTFE U270C

Re: Generator latch release not working.

Reply #10 –
Quote from: goldbehen –
After lubricating the latches and everywhere else I could , the door pops right open.

I did the same with mine now I need to slow the motion down so it doesn't tear itself apart...
Doug W.
96 36' U270 CSGI #4946
04 Toyota Tacoma 4x4
PNW

Re: Generator latch release not working.

Reply #11 –
Quote from: Doug W. –
I need to slow the motion down so it doesn't tear itself apart...

Mine seems to be a two-puller: one loosens it, the second one pops it open. Now Doug has me afraid to lubricate it.  :-\
 
Trent

Trent and Jean Eyler
2000  U295  4003  WTFE  ISC  350
Build#5603 MC#17385
 

Re: Generator latch release not working.

Reply #12 –
Our rig "locked me out" from the gen compartment last year. Really frustrating and tough to open, due to the clip/sleeve at the latch end of the cable losing tension on the cable, so no pulling force could release the latch. Tighten the clamp at the end of the cable and blast everything else with CorrosionX.

Then, floor it. Paul
Paul & Kathleen
1995 U320c SE 40'
Build 4681 --Cummins M11 /17511
"That Irish Girl"
Red MINI " 40"