I'm thinking of fitting one of the locking door handles, Fiamma or Milenco, to Bailey Senator Arizona (06/5 series) but I'm not sure about the fit. I was wondering if anyone has experience of fitting one of these to this specific 'van. Arthiritus in my right knee means that such a handle would be useful.
Thanks I had seen the Fiamma website, although the slideshow does not work. I do not feel the dimensional drawing is not too clear regarding fitting space required.
I was hoping that someone with my model of 'van had actual experience of fitting one of these.
Tim
Hi Tim, have indeed fitted the 31 model to our Arizona. It was several years ago when I did it but from memory the main difficulty is the space between the bathrtoom door and the door frame. This is very tight but is possible, however there is not enough space to put the plastic covers over the ends of the nuts & bolts. Mine remain uncovered but are not particularly visible as are tucked between the wall and the door frame.. If you go for it, be very careful drilling thro the wall, get the holes in the right place else you'll be in trouble. I have the same prob as you and the othe useful mod I've done is fit plastic pipes under the rear to guide the winder in to the rear steadies. I use a cordless drill with the extended socket and wind the steadies from the rear without trying to bend over and look underneath. Had a major fault with the 31 that I should make you aware of. After the van had been parked over the first winter, the lock had seized upabsolutely solid. Being unable to get into the van, I had to cut the cast housing away with an angle grinder and punch out the lock barrel. I then filled the housing with grease and although it was pretty carved up, once the plastic cover was replaced the 'Mod' was invisible although the actual lock no longer functions. With a double tread step we both find the handle very useful. Hope my comments are of some help.......................Mick
That detailed info was EXACTLY what I was looking for and I will certainly note ALL of your advice if I go for one of these. I had realised that the space around the door frame was pretty tight and this was why I was asking.
I have recently acquired a Milenco double step. I'm still okay with the steadies and Cary is younger and fitter than me too so I can put her to work when necessary!!!
Thanks again for your very helpful advice - much appreciated.
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Topic: Locking handle on Bailey Senator 5 Series
