Cabin Door Mechanisms Failing (B37, 2006)

[dawntreader]

I have now had 3 cabin door mechanisms fail. This is where the door handle hangs limply and is caused by the retaining extension spring in the mechanism breaking. I purchased two replacement mechanism units (not including handles) from Clipper Marine at extortionate prices (over £50 each). However, I have now found a supplier for the new springs (less than £5 each) and have successfully repaired the old mechanisms. It is fiddly but can be done.

The replacements, part number e0360041112, can be obtained from Associated Spring: http://www.assocspring.co.uk/s/e0360041112 and the choices are: stainless steel; stainless steel marine grade; music wire.

[dawntreader]

I notice there is a new post about doors - this info I published earlier may help

[Choupette]

I have just had exactly the same failure on my B37. I've got the lock mechanism out and removed the plunger that goes into the door frame, but I still don't see how to remove the old spring without cutting or drilling. You advised that you've done it but it's fiddly, please could you be a bit more explicit.

Thanks

Choupette

[dawntreader]

Although it is a simple structure I suggest you take a photograph of the mechanism at each stage of dismantling to ease re-assembly so that you have a record of where each part fits. Once open you will notice it is a simple mechanism but that the parts have to be correctly located for it to work.

The mechanism is enclosed in a pressed casing (no screws). Along the two longer edges of the case the outer panels are held to the sides by three tabs, two on one length and one on the other. By gently tapping and prising (I used a small screwdriver) apart along the edge that has only one tab it is possible to prise open the casing.

The door mechnism is operated by two springs - one for the latch and one for the handle return. It is the latter that is most likely to be broken. The third spring holds the privacy lock in position. This is the 'fiddly' part as the sliding mechanism is held in place by the latch spring.

Whilst it is apart you may want to apply some grease to the moving parts.

You will need to remove and replace the main spring and then re-assemble. This is where photographs come in handy. You may find it easier to re-assemble if the front plate (with latch cut-out) is secured to the mechanism. I used a small hammer to tap the casing back together again but make sure all the tabs are aligned first.

[Choupette]

Thank you for this excellent advice. I've got the spring and fiitted it to the mechanism as you described. Now just need to wait for warm day to go back to the boat to put it back into the door!

[dawntreader]

That's good news. Are there any changes to be made to the 'how to do it' advice above to make it easier for others to do?

[dawntreader]

Update:
The Spring number I used for my B37 2006 is: Extension Springs Stainless Steel 316 type Part Number: E03600411120X. Associated Springs have updated the page url for their catalogue and the link is now:

https://www.assocspring.co.uk/looped-ends/E0360-041-1120-X

[Harlequin]

Update:
The Spring number I used for my B37 2006 is: Extension Springs Stainless Steel 316 type Part Number: E03600411120X. Associated Springs have updated the page url for their catalogue and the link is now:

https://www.assocspring.co.uk/looped-ends/E0360-041-1120-X

Thanks for that - will try and order some now. I have at least 3 door handles broken in the same way... 

[Kibo]

I just repaired one of these locks thanks to the very useful instructions above. Another tip: open up the lock mechanism before buying new springs, my spring was simply broken at the attaching loop so I simply bent the last coil upwards with needle nosed pliers and made a new loop, shortens the spring very slightly but still works fine. Didn't cost me anything at all.....

Forgot to add: The spring length on the internet site link in Dawntreader's post is much longer than the spring in my door locks so maybe not all locks are the same configuration? If you do need to replace the springs then my advice is to disassemble your lock, measure the spring "free length" and then search on the Associated springs website since they have many options on length.

It is really quite straightforward to disassemble these locks, simply pry open with a fine blade or screwdriver, the mechanism is pretty self explanatory inside but take pictures if you are nervous. Take out the lock button spring first before opening the casing.

[Steve burt48]

I have now had 3 cabin door mechanisms fail. This is where the door handle hangs limply and is caused by the retaining extension spring in the mechanism breaking. I purchased two replacement mechanism units (not including handles) from Clipper Marine at extortionate prices (over £50 each). However, I have now found a supplier for the new springs (less than £5 each) and have successfully repaired the old mechanisms. It is fiddly but can be done.

The replacements, part number e0360041112, can be obtained from Associated Spring: http://www.assocspring.co.uk/s/e0360041112 and the choices are: stainless steel; stainless steel marine grade; music wire.

Go to the Bavaria web site they have them for sale there.

[Kibo]

Hi Steve Burt48

I couldn't find them. Could you post a link please

Thx

[Steve burt48]

/www.bavariaplus.de/en/category/view/6195858886361088/Fittings%20Interior?style=shop   

[Scorcher IV]

I have exactly the same problem and have ordered the springs, same boat as Dawntrader so should match. I think I will make a little video of changing them when they come.

[dawntreader]

The style of lock I have matches the code '303032' and '303030' on the Bavariaplus site shown above. They are essentially the same items but configured to left or right inside the lock mechanism.

[Scorcher IV]

Attached is a pdf document the shows the latch disassembled so that people can see the component parts and how easy it is to do.

[AMG]

Many thanks, I have just replaced the spring on the heads door lock (Bavaria 33 Cruiser, 2006), the initial spring size mentioned was the exact size. Very easy to replace the spring, but reckon a slight word of caution on reassembly to ensure that the lock casing plate (as removed) is firmly fixed on reassembly and the holding tabs (as prised off) are holding the plate and are not damaged. This plate holds the whole latch/lever assembly in situ, which ensures that the door opens (or not). On my heads door, the fit of the lock casing is very tight to wood, so I'm not concerned.     

In the cabin I can exit thro the hatch if the door latch fails, in the heads I'm too big to exit the portlight! I could install an axe next to the door.

A simple slider door catch would have been adequate in heads/cabins with no other exit route.

OK, all of this is OTT ............ but just a thought when you take the casing apart, I have springs ready to repair the next latches!

     

[Salty]

Good point there AMG.

[catlotion]

Old thread I know but wondering if anyone knows of a cheaper spring source...?

assocspring.co.uk want £15 each and min order of £30 + delivery so it's £36 for 2!   Seems a bit pricey...