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I was just talking to Dan Ham and he brought up a very good point that we all ought to know but hopefully wont have to use. Recently an owner let someone try and open the door on a IV-P before the door seal was deflated and it sheered the door handle barrel screw. We commonly talk about what tools are needed to get in if this happens when you are on the outside, but I think its worth mentioning what to do if stuck on the inside. This particular event happened in hot weather and the occupants chose to break out the pilot window to escape. There are probably better ways to release the door by accessing the internal mechanisms but the statement was made that if it comes to breaking out the window, you would be much better off breaking out the passenger window when it comes to replacement and repair. Of course in a true emergency you must get out however and wherever possible but if the choice can be made, break out the copilot side window! The copilot window is fairly easy to replace as it is just bonded and bid into the fuselage top. The pilot window is sandwiched between the door structure and is very difficult to change. Anyways, thought I would mention it! If anyone has some good suggestions for releasing the internal mechanism after removing the interior paneling, please comment.
Conrad
Submitted by rpastusek on
Conrad
There is an article on the LOBO website (www.lancairowners.com) on this subject. It’s under the MAINTENANCE tab, dated 2019-01-12, and available to all. This is actually an update of an earlier article, and discusses both access from outside, and emergency opening from inside the aircraft with a broken latch as you noted. The information is applicable to the IV-P and ES-P models, and opening from the inside is the second part—near the end.
The key to success here is prior planning/preparation—especially for getting out if trapped inside!!
Write or call me directly if you have any questions on this!!
Bob Pastusek, LOBO Secretary, 757-286-4802 cell
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