Piper Comanche PA-24 Service Manual page 221

Figure 4-6. Door Locking Mechanism PA-24-250, Serial Nos. 24-2844 to 24-3284
4-40. Adjustment Of Door Locking Mechanism. (PA-24-250, Serial Nos. 24-2844 to 24-3284)
The following is the procedure for adjusting the door latching mechanism on the Comanche. (Refer to
Figure 4-6.)
A. With only the door opening mechanism and handle installed, adjust rods (3) and (4) so that latches (1)
and (2) are fully extended when the door handle is in lock position (full forward): (1) retracted when (2)
is in closed position (neutral handle position - no force applied): and finally (1) and (2) retracted when
door handle is in open position (handle in full rear position.)
B. Install lock assembly (5), using horizontal locator line, so the stop plate will contact rod (3) just before
the rod (3) starts over the center. There should be a slight amount of free handle movement at the locked
position.
C. Adjust the automatic lock so that arm (6) will engage the spring loaded pawl on (7), move the stop plate
into the locked position, and then free itself of the pawl in its remaining motion. These actions are
accomplished during locking movement of the door handle.
D. Before the door may be opened. button (8) must be pulled up to allow the pawl on strap (7) to clear arm
(6) and return the lock to the unlocked position. Adjustment for this operation is made by bending arm
(6) and/or strap (7), it is important to note here that button (8) must be free of excess friction in the
rubber grommet.
E. Now install rod (9) while the locking mechanism is in locked position. Adjustment should be made so
that the stop plate is completely unlocked before the forward tab on rod (9) engages plate (10). These
adjustments are made by bending the forward tab and secondary push rod on assembly (9).
04/01/09
PIPER SENECA SERVICE MANUAL
1E18A
IV - STRUCTURES