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| As almost everyone knows, the lock assemblies that were factory installed
in the cabin door handle of most single and twin engine airplanes leave
a lot to be desired. They appear to lock the door but most any key
is just as likely to unlock that same door. Alternatively, the lock
is worn out, won’t lock or recently fell out of the handle. As everyone
knows, those lock assemblies cannot be replaced. Until now, there
was no solution to the problem.
The criteria that was established was that it had to look as if the factory installed it and would prevent any unauthorized person from entering unless they had the tools to destroy the airframe to get in. The result was a concept that yielded maximum security while making the installation surprisingly simple. The following is a brief description of what is involved. MEDECO LOCK ASSEMBLIES The Medeco lock is made from hardened steel to prevent the lock from simply being removed by drilling out the cylinder. It also prevents the placement of a flat blade with a lever on the end from being placed in the key slot and simply twisting the lock cylinder thereby breaking the locking mechanism and gaining entry. Most unauthorized entries occur because it is easy, quick, and the avionics and control wheels can be removed almost as fast or faster. With a Medeco lock installation, entry will require breaking a window or destroying the airframe. The key is made from a flat blank as compared to the cylindrical style key blanks. The teeth in the key are formed using a double cut technique so that by just copying the outline, such a key will not open the lock. Also, any key shop or locksmith without proper documentation will not duplicate the keys. Each lock assembly comes complete with two keys and all locks in the same installation can be keyed alike. A three-lock installation would provide the owner with up to six keys. A two-lock system, four keys. The magneto switch cannot be keyed to the Medeco locks, as their construction is totally different. INSTALLATION The Medeco lock is installed in the appropriate door(s) replacing the existing lock. There is no guesswork involved. This is an exact repacement for the existing locks. FAA PAPERWORK Since the installation of the lock assembly in the aircraft is an exact replacement, it is considered a minor alteration. This installation should be documented by an entry in the aircraft maintenance records. If there is any question regarding this, we recommend that the entity doing the work check with their local FAA Flight Standards District Office. ORDERING INFORMATION AND PRICING The Medeco Lock Assemblies are available in quantities of one or more. All we need is the aircraft model and total number of locks required. The basic kit for most aircraft except Beechcraft consists of two locks. One for the cabin door and one for the baggage door. The price for the 2-lock kit is $119.90 FOB Mission Viejo, CA. Additional locks are available at $59.95 each.. Terms are COD or cash in advance unless other credit terms have been established. Most orders are shipped within 24 hours. If we can answer any questions, please call. We thank you for your interest. |