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Last Updated on September 5, 2024 by Paul Clayton
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Are Travel Trailer Door Locks and Keys Universal?
Travel trailers are a popular choice for explorers and adventurers who value the freedom to roam. A common question often asked by new and prospective owners revolves around the security of these mobile homes: Are Travel Trailer Door Locks and Keys Universal?
- A unique set of keys for specific trailer models.
- Many RV owners replace locks for security.
- Customizable options are available for unique locks.
- Lost keys require contacting the manufacturer or locksmith.
- Using the wrong key can damage locks.
Your trailer keys could be the same as your neighbor’s, putting your RV at risk of theft. How is that possible? Are travel trailer door locks and keys universal?
Manufacturers do this to save dealers from carrying dozens of keys. This helps the salesmen unlock several RVs with a single key to give tours to interested customers.
That’s good for them, but what about your safety?
Don’t worry; I have shortlisted some preventive measures to protect your trailer from getting stolen.
Is Your Travel Trailer Safe?
Your travel trailer is unsafe since the door locks and keys are identical for almost every RV. Apart from door locks and keys, the storage compartment keys are also universal, so anyone can do a dirty job if you aren’t around your RV.
People can break into your trailer and steal your gear or precious accommodations in storage compartments.
Although this might not be the case for every travel trailer, precautionary measures should be taken to prevent such incidents.
Travel trailer theft is prevalent in the USA, especially if the thief knows you are out of state, making you an easier target.
Most beginners don’t know they are giving an open invitation to unwanted guests by not changing their door locks. Here are some factors that attract camper van thieves:
- Absence of security features
- Leaving your trailer unlocked
- Visible valuables lying around
- Parking in unsafe areas
Anti-Theft Locks for Travel Trailers
Traveling in an RV is a relaxing and soothing activity. However, it also comes with a theft risk while on the road. And this risk doubles if you are camping in unfamiliar areas.
Luckily, there are locks that you can replace to ensure maximum safety. I have discussed some of the best anti-theft locks for travel trailers:
1. Leisure RV Parts Entry Door Lock
This RV trailer lock from Leisure Locks has a built-in deadbolt to provide an extra sense of security.
Initially built for travel trailers, this entry door lock also supports towable haulers, cargo haulers, horse trailers, and custom utility trailers.
The package includes two separate keys for both the handle and the deadbolt. You will also get hardware, strike plates, and screws, making it convenient to replace your previous lock in no time.
The Leisure RV Parts lock fits most campervan doors and effortlessly replaces Trimark, Fastec, Global, or Bargman locks.
Available in black and white, this lock starts at $25.99. It has inside and outside latches and four double-edged keys.
It fits any door with a thickness between 1.25” and 1.5” and a hole cut out around 2.5” x 3.5” to 3” x 4”.
However, to be safe, I suggest checking your door’s specifications before purchasing it.
2. RV Designer Ace Compartment L327 Lock
Most robbers use the standard key that fits all travel trailer locks. However, with the Ace Compartment L327 Lock, the robber will walk away from your RV empty-handed because a regular key can not unlock it.
RV Designer is a famous brand name selling RV parts and hardware items required to maintain camper vans.
This Ace Compartment Lock has four locks with two keys: one offset cam and one straight cam. The 7/8-inch lock is affordable at $23.59.
Here is one tricky thing: after unlocking, the key stays fixed in its position. You must return the locks to their locked position to remove the key.
These tubular cam locks are best for your storage compartments as they are not very common. With this package, you can enjoy camping in peace.
3. TriMark 60-1650 Motor Home Entrance Door Hardware
TriMark is another popular industry that is famous for its superior quality locks, latches, handles, and electronics.
This product is designed for RV travel trailer entrance doors and has a steel plunger for better security and long life.
This lock features easy installation through sandwich mounting, plunger-style latches compliant with FMVSS 206, a built-in deadbolt for additional security, and is power lockable.
The TriMark’s entrance door lock can fit all entrance doors with thicknesses ranging from 1.39” to 1.78”. It fits left or right-hand doors, making its application universal.
The lock allows an inside release of about 23.9mm for close-fitting screen doors. It also comes with an interior assist with an open bail for convenient closing.
The optional deadbolt locks into the fully extended position for proper deadbolt functioning. It eliminates the need for add-on residential-type deadbolts.
The best thing is that you can lock its paddle before shutting the door, providing you with a rigid lock.
You can also add an optional, irremovable deadbolt cylinder for additional safety. Considering its price, this efficient look is very affordable, starting from $26.7.
4. Valterra 4-Way Universal RV Entrance Lock
Valterra manufactures RV specialty products, including high-quality knobs, entrance locks, levers, and other pool items.
The lock has a stainless steel finish matching almost every travel trailer’s color scheme. The Valterra lock features a solid steel interior and has a panic-proof inside knob.
This Valterra lock is available in standard and drive-in configurations. It has a 5-pin tumbler and a solid brass key cylinder.
With standard or drive-in style latches, this entrance lock costs $26.7 and has a four-way universal application. It fits doors that are 1-3/8″ to 1-5/8″ thick. Moreover, backsets should be around 2-3/8″ or 2-3/4″.
5. Creative Products Group Ultra M Pro Lock
The last lock on our list is from Creative Products Group, CPG. This durable lock has a revolutionary deadbolt system that provides security for you and your family.
Ultra M Pro features a new design with a full-size handle for a tight and convenient grip. It also comes with an interior safety release for an emergency exit.
The best thing about this lock is that you can install it without any hassle using a screwdriver.
The Key-Alike Ready lock fits a travel trailer standard cutout of about 3.75 T x 2.75 W.
This lock is trustworthy because of its safety-oriented features, so you do not need to worry. If you care about looks, it has a black powder coat finish to complement your RV.
How can I make my Travel Trailer Door more Secure?
To enhance the security of your travel trailer door, consider upgrading to a Keyless RVLock Handle.
This modification significantly improves standard handles, many of which have keys with minimal variation in their keycode, thus posing a security risk.
The RVLock products stand out as top-tier trailer security products due to their exceptional quality and unique key codes.
These handles come with thousands of unique vital codes, drastically reducing the chances of unauthorized access. So, if you’re asking how to make your travel trailer door more secure, this is an effective solution.
How do You Secure a Trailer Without a Lock?
Securing a trailer without a lock can be done in several ways. Firstly, you can consider parking the trailer in a well-lit, populated area where theft is less likely to occur.
Removable trailer wheels or tires can also deter potential thieves. If your trailer is not in use, you could store it in a secure garage or storage facility.
Finally, another option is to use a hitch cover, which prevents anyone from attaching your trailer to their vehicle.
Summary
This is a common misconception among many travel trailer owners. Each travel trailer model has unique keys that work exclusively with its specific lock system.
This measure is designed to ensure the security and privacy of RV owners. Often, owners opt to replace the original locks with more secure, customizable options to enhance the safety of their travel trailers.
When keys are lost or misplaced, the best course of action is to contact the manufacturer or a professional locksmith with expertise in specific lock systems.
It’s important to note that using an incorrect key can damage the lock mechanism, resulting in more complex issues. Hence, travel trailer owners must understand that their door locks and keys are not universal but rather unique to their specific models.
I hope this article helps you choose the right security locks for your travel trailers. Safe traveling, fellas!
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