Last Updated on October 8, 2024
Owning an RV is all about the freedom of the open road, the joy of exploration, and the comfort of having a home on wheels. However, nothing can put a damper on your adventure quite like a stubborn RV door that refuses to cooperate. Over time, RV doors can become increasingly difficult to open and close, leading to frustration and even potential damage. Luckily, there are simple modifications you can make to restore your door to its former glory. Below, we've highlighted the key points from a video we found that tackles this exact issue... so make sure to watch the entire video at the bottom of the article for a comprehensive guide.
1. Understanding Your RV Door Components
Before diving into the adjustments, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the different components of your RV door. The latch (or bolt), deadbolt, face plate, strike plate, and bore are all integral parts of the system. Knowing these terms will help you follow the steps more easily. Think of it as learning the names of your new friends before you start a project together—except these friends won’t ask you to help them move.
2. Tightening the Screws
One of the simplest fixes is to ensure that all screws on your face plate and strike plate are tight. Loose screws can cause misalignment and make the door difficult to operate. Always use a manual screwdriver to avoid stripping the screws. If you’ve ever tried to use a drill for this and ended up with a mangled screw head, you know why this step is important. It's like trying to eat spaghetti with a spoon—technically possible, but not advisable.
3. Checking Vertical Alignment
Next, check the vertical alignment of your latch and deadbolt. Mark the top and bottom of the opening and see if both are within those lines. Misalignment here is rare but worth checking. If your door is already refusing to shut or lock, this could be the culprit. Think of it as making sure your socks match before putting on shoes—small detail, big impact.
4. Modifying the Strike Plate
If your door is still giving you trouble, it’s time to modify the strike plate. Remove it and gently flatten out the raised profile with a hammer. This reduces friction and makes the door easier to close. Just remember to be gentle—no one wants to explain to their neighbors why they were hammering their RV at 7 AM. It’s like trying to swat a fly with a sledgehammer—overkill and likely to cause more problems.
5. Adjusting the Strike Plate Position
Sometimes, the strike plate needs to be moved slightly away from the RV to reduce pressure on the seals and make the latch easier to operate. This is a bit of a balancing act, as you want to keep the elements out while ensuring your door handle isn’t a workout device. It’s like finding the sweet spot on a seesaw—too much on one side, and everything goes haywire.
6. Lubricating the Components
Finally, don’t forget to lubricate the latch assembly and door hinges. A good lubricant like Shield T9 can work wonders. Just a little spray can make a big difference in how smoothly your door operates. It’s like giving your door a spa day—relaxation and rejuvenation in a can.
Fixing a hard shutting RV door doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a few simple adjustments and a little bit of elbow grease, you can have your door functioning smoothly again. For a more detailed walkthrough, be sure to watch the entire video at the bottom of the article. Happy travels, and may your RV door always open and close with ease!
