VW mods - Hatch extender
Sometimes we wanted to maximize the airflow in the van, and while there are already
a large number of openings, one more can't hurt, right?
Inspired by talk of a hatch extender on the
ev_update list, I set about building one. The idea was to create an extension
that would fit into the existing hatch connection, wedging it open several inches,
while still being lockable to keep out intruders. With about $10 in parts from the
hardware store, I built one.
There are five pieces: 1 eye bolt, 1 J-bolt, 2 nuts (one to fit on the J-bolt;
one to fit on the eye bolt), and 1 coupler (to connect the eye bolt to the J-bolt).
It took a couple trips to get the right size J-bolt and eye bolt. If the J-bolt
is too small, it won't stay in place in the latch, even when everything is locked
up. If the eye bolt is too small or big, it won't snap into the hatch connection
correctly.
I don't know offhand the exact sizes of the bolts, but you can get a good idea by
looking at the picture with a tape measure next to the extender. You can tell from
the photo it is about 9" in length, and that the eye bolt and J-bolt have different
sized threads and shaft diameters.
The coupler joins the J-bolt to the eye bolt, and the two nuts tighten against the
coupler to keep the whole assembly rigid.
To use it, start by inserting the J-bolt into the latch hole on the van. Lower the hatch
down next to the extender, and while holding the extender with one hand, lower the
hatch the rest of the way with the other hand, until the hatch latch snaps onto
the eye bolt.
That's it. At this point the hatch should be latched in place. If you reach in and
grab the extender, you should not be able to remove it. To open the hatch, lift
the handle on the tailgate just as if the hatch were normally closed. If you
lock the hatch, you won't be able to open it by using the handle, just like normal.
This means you can leave the van unattended and feel secure that no one can get
in your van. Or you can sleep with plenty of ventilation but still know that all
the doors are locked.
I should point out that a determined burglar can reach into the opening and use
a couple wrenches to disassemble the extender, and thus gain entry. If this is a
concern, make the extender shorter (like five inches) so no one can reach in. Note
that the shorter you make it, the harder it is to hold when lowering the hatch.
We weren't very concerned because there are easier ways to break in, like smashing
a window or reaching through the screen above the stove (assuming the window is
open, this is easily the least secure aspect of the camper).
This is how it looks from below when snapped in and locked.
Another view of the hatch extender in the locked position.