I don't want to install the outside handle until the sealing issues are dealt with because the handle rod needs to be cut to the correct length before installing the outside handle. To be able to get a good seal, I fabricated several (6) washers to set the inside handle a bit lower than necessary. I then installed the strike plate which is in a fixed position. To get a tighter seal, all I have to do is remove washers which raises the handle. When the raised handle is closed against the fixed strike plate, the canopy is shut a bit tighter. Once I decide how many washers I'll use, then I'll cut the handle rod to the correct length and install the outside handle. In the mean time, a vice-grip will work nicely.
