What should I check if my Cessna door latch is not engaging properly?
Inspect the drawbar, door latch mechanism, and linkage rod for cracks, bending, or wear. A failed drawbar is one of the most common causes of a Cessna 150/152 door not opening or latching correctly.
What does a Cessna 150/152 door handle drawbar do?
The door handle drawbar (also called a draw bar or door linkage rod) connects the inside door handle to the door latch mechanism. When the handle is pulled, the drawbar activates the latch so the door opens. If the drawbar fails, the inside door handle will not open the door.
Will this fix a Cessna door that won’t open from the inside?
In many cases, yes. If the issue is caused by a failed or worn drawbar, replacing it will restore proper operation of the inside door handle and latch.
What happens if the door drawbar breaks in flight or on the ground?
If the drawbar breaks, the inside door handle will not open the door. This can create operational inconvenience and potential safety concerns, especially during emergency situations.
Why does the Cessna door drawbar fail so often?
The OEM Cessna drawbar (P/N 0413406-3 and 0413406-8) is made from aluminum and is prone to cracking, bending, or breaking, especially at the loop end. Wear from repeated door operation and poor fit can also lead to premature failure.
Will replacing the drawbar improve a loose or sloppy door handle?
Yes, if the looseness is caused by wear or deformation of the drawbar, replacing it with an improved stainless steel design will tighten up the door handle feel and restore proper function.
Will one Landing Gear Door Hinge Kit do the entire aircraft (both RH/LH main gears)?
Yes, one kit will do both the left and right main landing gear doors.
Can I fabricate my own Cessna door drawbar?
While some attempt to fabricate a replacement, improper materials or geometry can lead to early failure. An FAA-PMA approved drawbar ensures proper fit, durability, and long-term reliability.
What are common signs of a broken drawbar in a Cessna 150 or 152?
Common symptoms include the inside door handle not working, the door not opening from the inside, or the handle pulling with no resistance. Mechanics may also find a cracked drawbar, broken loop end, or worn door linkage rod during inspection.
What makes the McFarlane Cessna door drawbar better than OEM?
This improved drawbar is made from stainless steel instead of aluminum for greater strength and longer service life. The redesigned shape eliminates common bending and cracking points, and a spacer washer improves fit, reduces looseness, and minimizes noise during operation.
Who pays shipping cost?
The buyer pays shipping from Germany to your door.
I bought door cables that have small holes in the rubber coating. Is this normal or are the cables damaged?
The small holes are normal as they are part of the manufacturing process.
How easy are the kits to install?
It's just a matter of removing the doors, pressing out the steel bushings and then pressing in the replacement parts. The kits include all necessary hardware including new bolts and spacers. Where the OEM sleeve part is flanged, the space is made up with a thin washer. Installation videos are available to demonstrate kit installation.
