Cupboard/Wardrobe Style Lock Issues

[Warrenk]

On a recent trip I was having self unlocking issues on the outside doors with cupboard/wardrobe style locks on our Roadhaven.  The one on the outside screen door would not unlock, but I eventually freed it up, but then it would unlock itself while driving.  I replaced this with a brand new Tradco lock the same size, but this new lock keep unlocking while driving as well. Then the outside door which gives me access to  the awning poles and tools under the bed opened while moving.  Both these doors need a decent push against the rubber to lock and unlock them. Luckily nothing fell out.  Cable ties and "go faster" tape keep them both shut. Is this an issue with these locks.  What would be the best type of lock to replace them?  

[Roehm3108]

It sounds a bit like there is not enough of the striker of the lock returning into the frame. If it's happening with a new lock as well, it doesn't sound like the striker itself is the problem. If there is too much of a gap between the lock and the frame into which the striker goes, then there might only be a millimetre or so of the striker that's actually holding the lock shut. Perhaps you might need to up-size the lock with a longer striker?

[Warrenk]

When I said unlocking I was saying the lock was rotating into the unlocked position.  On my locks there is plenty of overlap of the lock tongue and the stricker and when locked is very firm.  The trouble it appears the tongue doesn't lock into place when the key is removed, but depends on friction to hold it in place.  It must work successfully as this type of lock was used extensively in caravans.  

[Roehm3108]

You made no mention about the lock rotating within itself. Perhaps you need to put up a photo of the lock so that we know what you are talking about. Is this the style of lock you're referring to?: www.caravansplus.com.au/rotating-mini-door-lock-complete-short-thread-p-3285.html

Could it be that by "freeing" the lock up, you have actually loosened it to the point that it rattles/vibrates around into the unlocked position? Perhaps a machine or spring washer would help keep it in its correct position.

[Warrenk]

The lock is just a wardrobe lock used by caravan builders in the 50's, 60's and 70's although Roadhaven appeared to use a better quality one on the outside doors where these locks for fitted.  The one I used was a Tradco 4002 to replace the faulty one.  The new lock still rotated and unlocked itself the same as the old on did.  The trouble with them is they do not self lock when the key is removed.

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[Roehm3108]

You've got me tossed on this one Warrenk! I've used the same style in a previous van and never had a problem. Admittedly the one I fitted was new old stock, so the quality may have been better than what they make today.

These locks are definitely meant to be used as a lock, rather than a catch, hence the key operation. Stating the obvious, have you made sure that the slot the striker slides into is actually deep enough and clear to let the striker go in freely? Interestingly, nobody else has weighed into this chat, which sort of tells me that nobody else has had the problem.

As an alternative, would something like the latch I gave you the link to in my previous post, help with the under-bed access door? As the screen door is a separate door, perhaps a simple rim night latch could work.

www.google.com/aclk?sa=l&ai=DChcSEwj1o6746uDwAhVUrpYKHdMXAGQYABAVGgJ0bA&sig=AOD64_3bnQn0zYggqhMY0q0RB5aYhGg-uQ&ctype=5&q=&ved=0ahUKEwiU5aj46uDwAhWXzzgGHR82DEMQww8IxgU&adurl=

[Warrenk]

I have learnt a lot about cupboard/wardrobe locks today.  In a cupboard/wardrobe style lock you can get 1, 2, 4, and 6 lever locks.  The original locks that are in the Roadhaven appear to be one lever locks, which means there is only 1 lever stopping the tongue from retracting.  The more levers in the lock makes them more secure.  The key with more groves in the flat piece on the end has more levers.  Jackson make a 2, 4 and 6 lever lock, which I would like a 4 or 6 lever lock but are almost impossible to get as the Jackson suppliers I contacted don't stock them and min purchase from Jackson is 5 locks. I have found a couple of 2 lever locks (Tradco)that are NOS, made in the 60's, so I will give them a go.

[Warrenk]

The new locks arrived today.  I decided to get the 4 lever model.  In the picture you can see how this lock will lock the tongue in place and what the key looks like. 


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