Locking DP engine grates?

As long as we are worrying about stuff.......I've worried more about the front end and the genset. One could open the panel, hit start and walk away. With a full tank of diesel, it could run for a while!

In storage, you'll probably have the batteries disconnected, but what about other times?

Jeff

As Wolfe suggested--put a piece of cardboard or plywood behind grate when storing. Then lock the grate. Then they can't reach between the grates.

DICK

my old 1988 Xplorer DP 36' had a key locking engine access grille ... never gave it any thought until this thread... my "new" 2001 Tradewinds 37' DP does not....

The bay compartment latches would need to be broken and damaged to get into them. That would immediately raise a flag. I can't imagine what a new engine or transmission would end up costing if vandalized.

It was just a thought while in the storage over the weekend. I usually back into the slot which leaves the rear out of view of cameras. Anyone could access my rear engine area (radiator). Most of the fluid fill and check points are very easy to get at from there. They've had vandalism here in the past. Some MH's were really tore up.

I rather spend the extra $20 for the cable and lock (which I have) then worry about it. It's now locked and problem eliminated. I will remove the cable and lock while traveling.

Mine locks, but most everyone has a key that fits. No problem in storage or otherwise for 12+ years.

I suspect the chances are greater that someone would siphon your fuel and/or empty the propane tank since that compartment is always unlocked also.

I would keep it unlocked when in use for safety reasons or add a fire suppression (Halon) system.

I wondering if this is an actual problem or just solutions looking for a problem. I don't recall ever seeing a comment regarding human vandalism inside the engine compartment.

I would also be a bit concerned about locking the hatch too securely and than needing access in a hurry while scurrying around looking for a key.

Wouldn't this same fear of vandalism rational also apply to the propane and battery access hatches.

The OP brings up an interesting point that I'll bet that many of us hadn't given much thought too. I know that I didn't.

On mine, my engine hatch is opened by pulling down on a spring loaded latch located down in front of the license plate area. The hatch then lifts with the help of two spring pistons, just like on a cargo bay door. Just off the top of my head, I can't think of anyway that I could lock it if I wanted to. At least, not without drilling and cutting someplace into the rear cap and engine hatch. Not doing that.

We recently purchased a new diesel pusher, and I was a little disappointed to see that it too didn't have a luck for the rear access panel. Then, though, when I studied it, I realized that most things like the oil dipstick, trans dipstick, coolant reservoir could be reached with a little difficulty right through the slots in the rear access door. So I gave up on the lock issue.

Of course, we keep our motorhome stored in a locked garage in our backyard so that gives me a major advantage over you who keep yours in a storage area. I realize I am very fortunate to be able to keep our motorhome on our property.

Ed