Brief Description: Fwd baggage door aft latch block and door strut in
Ok, After venting and talking of quitting and taking a long break, Things turned around some today for the better. I guess the build gods didnt want me to stop.
The front latch was going good, I got the bottom screw installed and the latch was engaging easily but I decided to see how much I could nudge the block down before I couldnt get the door latched any more. I elongated the bottom hole into and oval and tighened the screw just enough to hold in position. I closed the door and then strapped it down real tight.
Reached thru the front panel with a long drill bit and extension and drilled a pilot hole for the top screw . open door and remove lock block, drilled up for the #8 screw, countersunk etcc etc and reinstalled. Added some grease to the pin and block holes.
Closed door and pushed down on door on problem side firmly while trying to turn the key. Got it! Its a bit too snug and im afraid that Ill break the key off in the lock But The Door pulls down for a FLUSH FIT! I bet I can loosen the block a smidge to make the lock engage a little easier but Ill probably leave it alone for awhile.
Installed the door strut that I got from Mc Master Carr. I used Matt Drales log and dimensions to place it exactly as he said and it works. The strut is attached to the door rib with 3 LP 4-3 pull rivits and to the angle brace on fire wall with two #8 screws with nylock nuts. The last few inches of closure the strut actually pulls the door closed! Nice!! Thanks MAtt!
mcMaster-carr part no 11615A 14 The bracket is 8 inches in from outer skin and attaches to the door rib 11/16" up from the door edge.
