Auto loft latch release

Fat Freddie

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Mar 19, 2009, 12:01:57 PM3/19/09

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Hi

In order to make the most of my new loft ladder I have just converted my
loft hatch lid to a hinged drop down as opposed to an unhinged push up. It
is a neat fit and will stay up by friction alone however I dont want it
swinging down and catching me or anyone else unawares once it has been used
a few times so I purchased this auto loft latch
http://www.focusdiy.co.uk/invt/42109

Now although it comes with detailed fitting instructions it does not
actually explain how the latch releases again once the door is closed... and
for the life of me I cannot see how pushing the door/latch farther in to the
catch will release it again at this does nothing when I try it (unfitted to
the loft). Can anyone here explain or assure me I wont be locked out of my
loft forever once I have fitted this?

Ta

Freddie

Andy Cap

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Mar 19, 2009, 12:07:24 PM3/19/09

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> Can anyone here explain or assure me I wont be locked out of my
> loft forever once I have fitted this?
>
> Ta
>
> Freddie

No you wont be locked out. The first time it catches, the next push up
releases it. They can be a little unreliable and it's worth just being
sure it's held securely, before walking away, but they work OK.

Vass

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Mar 19, 2009, 12:06:35 PM3/19/09

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"Fat Freddie" <dontm...@homeorwork.com> wrote in message
news:X%twl.192716$OT2....@newsfe29.ams2...

you should be able to test the latch in your hands
if this is not working maybe its faulty?
--
Vass

Lobster

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Mar 19, 2009, 2:10:27 PM3/19/09

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yes, but it's quite fiddly to do so...

Bruce

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Mar 19, 2009, 2:25:11 PM3/19/09

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These latches are brilliant. I have used them in my last three houses.

HOWEVER, before fitting it you MUST sand the hatch so there is no
remaining friction. The latch will only work properly if it is the only
thing holding up the hatch door. If friction remains, you will have
problems operating the latch.

the

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Mar 19, 2009, 5:24:49 PM3/19/09

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Does it work similarly to the way a memory card slots in to a digital
camera .Push in to hold it in and push again to spring it out so you
can remove it .
Whats wrong with the normal latch you turn using a pole with a hook on
?

Fat Freddie

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Mar 19, 2009, 8:54:17 PM3/19/09

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Vass, Lobster
yup this was what is throwing me, I just cant get the catch to release while
putting them together by hand. It catches ok but wont release once I have it
held against a solid object (like the wall)? its like the catch has to move
out past where the back of it would be up against the edge of the hatch ???
might try it out on an old cupboard door first

Cheers Bruce
The hatch door actually has to go up slightly past level for the friction to
hold it so i should be alright if i fit the latch at the correct point.

Realfictitious
yes i guess it's the same action as a memory card slot i just couldn't get
it to work while holding it in my hands.

<snip>Whats wrong with the normal latch you turn using a pole with a hook
on?</snip>

Is this homemade from a full size door latch? or a specific loft door latch
(if it is I didn't see one with a hook?)

Thanks for the replies.
I'll fit it tomorrow.

Cheers

Fat Freddie

Mat C

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Mar 20, 2009, 8:36:46 AM3/20/09

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"Fat Freddie" <dontm...@homeorwork.com> wrote in message

news:aPBwl.99350$2t6....@newsfe28.ams2...

Why not have a 2nd person in the loft with a torch and screwdriver, just in
case?

Mike

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Mar 23, 2009, 11:40:28 AM3/23/09

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Can I also add that be very careful when climbing into or climbing
down from the loft. Those catches, and their placement within the
hatch means they are lethal and can easily remove big chunks of flesh
from the lower back - it hurts like hell!

I've not converted my current loft hatch but when I do I'd much sooner
use a couple of super strength magnets and a strap of woven packing
tape.
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