MCI8 Door Lock Installation

chessie4905 · February 27, 2018, 10:29:48 AM

Our 1948 ACF Brill, the door was opened and closed by an air cylinder. You could also turn off the air to use it manually.

PNWorBUST72 · February 27, 2018, 03:44:54 PM

So the hunt for the emergency release begins...

I traced two red air lines from the emergency switch up in the driver compartment to the solenoid looking thing in the spare tire area. But nothing to engage the solenoid or anything.

I looked in the elect5rical box under the driver side window, I didnt see any sort of "choke" type device, I know what you are talking about, I just cant find it.

Now the other picture is what I THINK is the interior portion of the outside button you press to unlock the airlocks. It appears that this bus was in some sort of crash and that might be why they replaced the fron end with this fiberglass shell. When that happened, they just never replaced the exterior button but I can see the hole through the frame.

Any idea on where I can find a replacement?

PNWorBUST72 · February 28, 2018, 04:49:26 PM

So I tried to rig something up today but nada, looks like a need the plunger. I got the part number, where do we look for parts for these things?

buswarrior · February 28, 2018, 06:23:18 PM

Wrecking yard, or a busnut who has removed the stock door opener and still has the parts kicking around.

Make your own? It's just a rod and a spring?

That is a part that would last the life of the bus, i'd be shocked if they exist on a shelf!

Go back to adjusting the door linkage so the door will not accidentally click over centre when closed from outside, but the handle can be pushed hard from inside to lock closed. Then install the locking handle of your choice?

Happy coaching!
Buswarrior

Jim Eh. · February 28, 2018, 06:31:42 PM

Funny, the picture of the "solenoid" almost looks like it is a speed actuated control. Did MCI ever use such a thing or perhaps an aftermarket affair?

chessie4905 · March 01, 2018, 04:26:22 AM

Check with Luke.

PNWorBUST72 · March 01, 2018, 10:39:41 AM

MCI had a plunger assembly for $23, not my bus but for $23 I'll give it a go.

Fred Hobe information is all disconnected.

Who is Luke?

Is there a way to engage/disengage that solenoid to release the door from the outside? How can I check to see if it even works?

buswarrior · March 01, 2018, 05:03:02 PM

What is disconnected with Fred Hobe's info? 6 pages here?

http://www.coachconversioncentral.com/fredhobe.htm

There was no solenoid in a stock MC8 door mechanism. straight mechanical pneumatic analog system.

happy coaching!
buswarrior

buswarrior · March 01, 2018, 05:38:23 PM

Well, rats!

The bits on installing a door latch using tractor trailer door parts isn't there anymore?

not
happy coaching!
buswarrior

richard5933 · March 01, 2018, 06:13:35 PM

Luke is at US Coach in NJ. One of the best resources and supporters of the hobby. Great selection of parts, many NOS, at reasonable prices.

He can be reached at 856-794-3104

PNWorBUST72 · March 01, 2018, 06:16:22 PM

Thanks Richard, I'll call them in the AM.

Fred's email bounces back and the phone number listed isn't he any more...I spoke to a nice lady today about it.

So the only way to open the door is using the plunger, no solenoid to open it?

scott332 · March 02, 2018, 06:58:59 AM

I rigged up a linear actuator and a steel cable to pull the release lever. My dad put together a remote Bluetooth control board to activate it, and I can open the door with my cellphone or tablet. I can also control some lights like the porch light and entrance lights with it. I was tired of having to unlock the padlock on the front door release button.

PNWorBUST72 · March 03, 2018, 03:29:46 AM

US Coach is looking for a Plunger Assembly now...

Scot - Can you give some more detail there, I love the idea.

Geoff · March 03, 2018, 12:00:27 PM

I didn't read all the posts, but a lot of people use the Bargman RV door latch.

PNWorBUST72 · March 30, 2018, 12:03:54 PM

Ok so I found a plunger assembly but I am not sure its going to fit.

Remember my coach has this stupid fiberglass front end and I THINK they put it right over the original metal so it"looks" much thicker through that hole for the plunger. But once I cut it out, I am stuck.

Also, I still can't get that emergency red handled solenoid working, any thoughts there? How is it supposed to work? Do I have to be running with a certain air pressure or anything? Key on?

Bus warrior - Any guides on how to adjust that door handle like your talking about?