Door Struts

[AKRUEBBE]

Has anyone tried to put struts on the front compartment door? It would make it really easier to open without having to use that door latch!

[klassic]

I put one of these on beside it
DW hasn’t figured out what it is yet and still uses the other one. Lol

[AKRUEBBE]

Originally Posted by klassic

I put one of these on beside it
DW hasn’t figured out what it is yet and still uses the other one. Lol

Does that get enough bite on the door so it wouldn't accidentally fall?? I'm thinking maybe heavy magnets on each end.

[robkelly]

Originally Posted by klassic

I put one of these on beside it
DW hasn’t figured out what it is yet and still uses the other one. Lol

I like the idea, but don’t think our front basement door opens wide enough to be able to use this type of latch. Unlike our previous 5er, I’m not able to open the front basement door while hitched up.

[klassic]

I can’t open when hitched up either

[klassic]

Originally Posted by AKRUEBBE

Does that get enough bite on the door so it wouldn't accidentally fall?? I'm thinking maybe heavy magnets on each end.

I know what you’re talking about...and it will.
I put about 1/16” cut in the bottom of the hook and it will grab the edge of the aluminum trim.
Holds solid.
It has never fallen.

[Camper_bob]

https://www.hatchlift.com/

Check these guys out. I have them on a few of my compartment doors that can't use magnetic latches for various reasons, and I recommend them.

I prefer magnetic latches over the clip-type ones, but that's just my preference.

Yes, Hatchlift is a LITTLE pricey for what you get, but it comes shipped to your door as a complete kit and with parts to fit various mounting "situations". Almost plug and play, and installation is relatively quick and easy with clearly stated instructions included.

You might be able to source the individual parts separately and save a few $$, but you can't beat the convenience of these kits.

I've only found them available direct from Hatchlift, or on Amazon; Amazon was a few bucks cheaper when I went to buy my last set, and I get free Prime shipping.

Despite what it says, they will work on "slam latch" doors; I verified this directly with Hatchlift.

[Joan617]

Nice resource Bob, thanks for posting! Definitely putting Hatchlift in the bookmark file.
-Angus