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Topic: Pos-A-Loc and Cold Weather (Read 566 times) previous topic - next topic

Pos-A-Loc and Cold Weather

On our recent trip to Montana, we experienced problems with the Pos-A-Loc system on the entry door. In temperatures below about 15F, we could not get the inside. nor the outside, handles to unlock the door if it was adjusted so it would release the "hold open" catch at the top of the door. The solution was to remove the inside cover for the lock mechanism and loosen the two screws holding the cable to the "hold open" mechanism. That worked great until temperatures rose and the door swung wide open. In that circumstance I had to readjust the release mechanism in order to close the door.

My hypothesis is that the cable gets enough moisture in it to freeze when the temperature drops low enough. The cable mechanism prevents the handles from releasing the door catches. It is in the "condensing/freezing zone" between the warm air inside the coach and the very cold air outside. Releasing the adjusting screws for the cable allows the handles to release the door catch, but the handle no longer will release the "hold open" catch.

Perhaps there is a way to adjust the system to deal with the issue. I think our solution will be to avoid travel to areas where the temperature will be below 20F. I'm pleased to have gone on our four adventures to Montana in December/January, but I think we will rearrange schedules to visit family under more favorable conditions.
J D Stevens
1997 U295 CAI 36' Build #5085
2002 Subaru Outback
Motorcade 16869
Bellville, TX

Re: Pos-A-Loc and Cold Weather

Reply #1 –
I think our solution will be to avoid travel to areas where the temperature will be below 20F.

Excellent solution.
Tom Lang K6PG (originally  KC6UEC)
and Diane Lang
2003 38 U295 build 6209
2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit Ecodiesel
still have tow-ready 2006 Acura MDX 
Temple City, California
Motorcade 16681 California Chapter President
SKP 16663 member of SKP Park of the Sierra, Coarsegold California
FMCA F071251
Retired electrical and electronic engineer

Re: Pos-A-Loc and Cold Weather

Reply #2 –
J. D.
Glad to see you made it back from the north. We met you on our way south in December. You are braver then we are.
Safe travels
Donald & Cheryl
1999 U295 36'
2006 Saturn Vue Toad
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Re: Pos-A-Loc and Cold Weather

Reply #3 –
JD,
Agreeded, a trip South will solve your lock problems.
Jerry & Nanci
1999 U270 34'WTFI
2011 Malibu
A smart man knows what to say, a wise man knows when to say it.

Re: Pos-A-Loc and Cold Weather

Reply #4 –
Not necessarily.

Mine lock up in cold or heat.

As has been noted here earlier, taking the internal door cover off and applying graphite helps.

Then, just yesterday, I noticed that if I disengage the latch while outside, and THEN pull to open the door its easier than to do it in one fell swoop.

best, paul

Quote
Agreeded, a trip South will solve your lock problems.
1999 U320 40' 1200 watts on roof. 12cf AC/DC Cold plate fridge/freezer. VMS 240 CL Honda Element

Re: Pos-A-Loc and Cold Weather

Reply #5 –
A few ideas:
1.  Lubricate cable and install rubber boots on ends if possible.  Lube will ultimately dry out so it would need to be re-done on some kind of schedule.
2.  Install heat tape.  Same as what is used on pipes.  Possible space issues as well as power feed to door to be worked out.  12 volt heat tape is available too.
3.  Maybe you can limit door travel in cold temps so the feature isn't used?  Can't image you want to hold the door open when it's so cold outside. 
John Fitzgerald
1991 U300 (SAI) Side Aisle Island Bed 40'
Detroit 6V92 with Allison Retarder
Meridian (Boise), Idaho

Re: Pos-A-Loc and Cold Weather

Reply #6 –
I like your solution as it is similar to ours for winterizing. We winterize by driving south.
Royce & Denise, MC #17410
'01 U320 4220 ISM450 Build #5895 SOLD
Toad: '10 Honda CR-V

Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world. - Gustave Flaubert