Details re: "Hingeless Oil Door Latch".
THANKS for the nice compliments! I will attempt to answer the questions asked:
1. Yes, some Lancair builders use this latch system and I bought it at
www.advancedaviationinc.com/v2/site.html for around $225; however, I modified it slightly for a RV. I think you could get reasonably close for less $ if you spent the TIME to piece it together. Keep in mind there are more than a couple pieces. There are:
1. The hinge WITH the cable internally attached to it.
2. A built-up fiberglass mounting plate for the hinge.
3. The clasp that the hinge pin fits nicely and firmly into.
4. A built-up fiberglass mounting plate for the clasp.
5. The long cable designed to be cut down with a tough plastic liner.
6. A small fitting to make a pull loop that fits your finger.
7. And the little tubing that fits the finger loop.
I do not know where you would find #s 1, 2 & 4.
COUPLE OF IDEAS:
1. I roughed up the fiberglass with #30 sand papper and hot glued the tube in place. WORKS REALLY WELL.
2. Due to the extreme air pressure in the upper cowl, you have to stiffin up the 1/8" thick fiberglass door. I choose to add 3/8" ridgid foam with 45 degree edges on the back of the door and applied a couple layers of very strong carbon fiber material.
3. I placed the finger pull on the Pilot side because the front left cylinder head is way back on the Pilot side and your won't burn your hand when you reach in to pull the latch.
OH, and regarding pics of my paint I will put post some when paint job is 100% complete. I did post a few pics titled: "New Tail Art".
THANKS ALOT! HAPPY BUILDING........