Could you explain how you use the box wrench and phillips to get
out of a 4P? Thanks, Gary
Gary,
If your IV/IV-P door was built by Lancair, or built according to
the instructions, the latches (3 for the IV; 8 for the IV-P) are linked together
with flex cable, and each “chain” of latches (one chain each on the
front, bottom, and back of door) ends with a 3/8” diameter bolt that’s
used as a rotating latch pin, and having a ˝” hex head. These latches are
covered with small trim pieces, typically held in place with #6 phillips-head
screws.
If any part of the linked-together latch mechanism breaks, it will leave one or
more latches closed, trapping any occupants inside. The trick is to determine
which latches are still fastened, remove the trim cover at the end of the appropriate
chain, and use the ˝” wrench to turn the latching mechanism from that
point.
Depending on what failed, you might be able to open the door using
other tools/methods (this has been done), but at least one IV-P has been opened
by breaking out a side window to free the trapped occupants.
By the way, if you’re still building, consider installing
a 4-5” access hole, covered with an aluminum plate on the inside, in your
rear seat directly above the left gear leg. Hold it in place with silicone
sealant and a cross piece on the landing gear side of the seat bottom. Make it removable
from inside or outside the aircraft. Remove the plate to pass tools and provide
cooling air into the cockpit if you’re trapped on a hot day.
Hope this helps.
Bob