emergency exit window latch broken

[jfaberna]

I have a 2014 3402RL and the rear window has an exit window as part of the larger rear window. It's on the ODS (driver side).

Well I found the window flapping the other day and the latch had sheared off the window frame on the outside. I can't find a replacement locally anywhere we've stopped.

A couple of questions I'd like opinions on.

1. The factory latch is riveted into place and I don't have my rivet tool with me. I wonder if it's okay to use small nuts and bolts to put in a new one assuming I can locate a latch?

2. I've temporarily secured the window by using the cooper wire I stripped out of the center of a coaxial cable. It seems strong enough to hold it secure, but I think it would break if I had to get my fat ass out the window in a fire by using a swift kick.
Should I leave the cooper wire as the solution until I get home in a few months?

[rescue7]

I bought a latch on ebay. Wired like you till I got home to repair.

[jcurtis934]

I also think you are good to go and perm. fix as time permits. Relax, it's a trailer after all, situation normal. John

[1retired06]

Several historical posts on this subject with good solutions. Doing a search worth your time.

[Rondo]

There are multiple posts on this problem. I've had mine break also and they fixed it at the Fall Rally but there are posts on where others have purchased the latch. Be sure you measure the latch and get the correct one!

[hickory]

We bought a new one at a Local RV dealer. He had to order it as he only had the short one in stock and we needed the long one. I think it was around $9.00.

[rames14]

I fixed ours and another MOC member's while traveling through Maine last year. Talked with Jason Gill of Keystone and he got the parts to Lippert to review. I made a replacement out of a rubber stopper. Hopefully Lippert was making a change. I can say with confidence that somewhere between 3,000 and 10,000 miles every one will break. I drilled out the rivets and used screws and nuts instead. There is a sharp edge where it breaks. It's a stress riser. They should have a radius there and thicker material.

[Recumbent]

I used bicycle chain link ( the little sides with two holes in each side) to replace the two little thin aluminum pieces that broke. Drilled out the brads and used screws. It works and will have to break somewhere else as the bike chain link is steel.

[jfaberna]

Thanks to all for the feedback

[captl27]

Mine broke while travelling. Camping World mailed me a replacement because my 5er was less then a year old. I installed it myself rather then travel long distance to my dealer.

[Dmcgrew]

Have one that also broke, took three times ordering from Lippert and never recieved the correct lever. Finally got one from a burnt RV at salvage yard.