lucytravel12
Louisville, KY
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Joined: 07/21/2012
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Just bought an '87 Falcon and am having trouble just locating all the "systems". The rear door won't open. The key turns, but nothing happens when I pull on the handle. I sprayed oil on it, but that didn't help. Any suggestions? Also, two of the panels (potable water and another unknown) need a key, but the seller didn't provide it. Anyone know how to "pick" those locks?
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NewsW
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Joined: 02/06/2012
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Chances are the lower hinge is jammed.
They rust solid after a while.
Go try to open it from the inside --- if needs be disassemble the drivers and passenger panel.
Often the cables that open the door is broken --- and it is a matter of seeing what the issue is once you open up the inside.
You will see the door mechanism -- the top one on the drivers side can jam, and ditto the bottom.
Just use penetrating oil --- and work the cables loose.
I had to do it on my 2005 from severe rust damage.
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Horizon170
Jefferson, GA
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Joined: 02/25/2005
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lucytravel12 wrote:Just bought an '87 Falcon and am having trouble just locating all the "systems". The rear door won't open. The key turns, but nothing happens when I pull on the handle. I sprayed oil on it, but that didn't help. Any suggestions? Also, two of the panels (potable water and another unknown) need a key, but the seller didn't provide it. Anyone know how to "pick" those locks?
Try the door from the inside. You may have to exert pressure. On the locks, see if there is a 3 digit number on the lock itsef. If so call a local Camper Supply House and see if they have a matching key. I got some extra keys that way from Camping World. If that fails just drill out the lock where the key fits and turn with screwdriver. Then buy a replacement lock. Take the parts with you to the supply house.
Marvin
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ernie1
Sacramento,California,USA
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Joined: 02/10/2004
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On my 1989 Falcon the spare tire was mounted on the driver's side rear door. The tire/rim combo was super heavy and caused the doors to squeak like crazy. I wonder if the rear doors on your Falcon have worn hinges and have now made contact with each other to a point where you can't budge them. Try removing the spare tire first which will unload the driver's side door and then pull and push like crazy to see it that works. You might also carefully use a wooden wedge under either or both doors to "unload" the weight on them.
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lucytravel12
Louisville, KY
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Joined: 07/21/2012
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Great news! A locksmith got me keys to the panels, and we forced the rear door open! The battery is under the bathroom closet - success at last!
I was told not to plug in the coach until I was sure the battery was in place. Do I have to check to make sure the battery is charged, or does it just have to be "in place"?
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NewsW
US
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Now that you got the rear doors open --- take it apart, and see if the cables and fitting (top and bottom latch) are rusted solid as I suspect.
If so, replace them.
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lucytravel12
Louisville, KY
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More good news! I'm making progress. Some axel grease has the rear doors sliding open & closed, and I now have keys for all the side panels too.
Installed a new battery, and I have coach power - hurrah!
Now, I need help with the water system. I put water in the "potable water" tank. I can see that the tank is holding the water, but nothing happens when I turn on the water. Not a sound from the pump. Should I be looking for an "on-off" switch on the pump?
Sure appreciate everyone's help and advice!
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NewsW
US
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Joined: 02/06/2012
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Find the pump.
Follow the leads. If there is a fuse verify it.
Go to the 12V DC panel where there is a fuse -- and verify fuse.
If both OK, time to take out voltmeter to see if there is power to the pump.
If voltage OK, then you got a problem at the pump.
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