Hartal Caravan Door Lock Problems

Hartal door locks, common in many caravans including the 2008 Bailey Arizona, have been a topic of discussion due to recurrent issues faced by users. The primary problems seem to center around the key not turning, the lock getting stuck in the locked position with the door open, or the locking mechanism binding up. Here, we explore these problems in detail and delve into some potential solutions.

The Problems:

1. Key Not Turning: Some users have reported that they are unable to lock their caravan as the key refuses to turn.
2. Lock Stuck in the Locked Position: Another problem faced is the lock being stuck in the locked position while the door is open, preventing the door from being shut.
3. Binding Mechanism: In certain cases, the lock mechanism binds up, causing operational difficulties.

Possible Solutions:

1. Filing the Nub:
   • The ‘nub’ refers to a part of the lock, extending slightly past the circlip. It looks like a flat blade type piece of metal. Filing down both sides of this nub by a millimeter can help with smoother operation.
   • Alternatively, elongating the slot in the body or filing the tiny stops a fraction has also been found effective.
   • Importantly, when reinstalling the lock on the door, it shouldn’t be tightened too much as that can cause the mechanism to bind again.
2. Lubrication:
   • Lubricating the slot with a small amount of Vaseline can further assist in smooth operation.
   • Another suggestion involves applying silicon grease to all the sliding plastic parts within the lock mechanism. This can keep the parts moving smoothly and prevent sticking.
3. Red and Green Button Caution:
   • The lock has red and green buttons which can be challenging to remove without causing damage. They tend to pop off and can get lost easily. If damaged during removal, some users have opted to leave them off entirely, resulting in just screw heads being visible.
4. Check Door Frame Alignment:
   • Misaligned door frames can also be a cause for lock issues. Some users have been told by dealers that the door frame was out of alignment, which affected the lock’s operation. Addressing this alignment might be a solution, though it’s always advised to confirm whether the door frame is indeed misaligned before making any changes.
5. Acquire the Right Tools:
   • If you plan on working on the lock yourself, it’s essential to have the right tools. For instance, circlip pliers are vital when handling the circlip on the lock. These are readily available online, as mentioned by a user who purchased them from eBay.

In conclusion, while the Hartal caravan door lock is a common choice for many caravan owners, like any hardware, it may present issues over time. By understanding the root causes and exploring the potential solutions listed above, users can often address these problems themselves. However, if you’re uncertain or uncomfortable performing these adjustments, always consider seeking professional assistance. Safety should always be the priority when dealing with entry and exit points of any vehicle or dwelling.