Hatch Handle Mod.

[Flat Toy]

Several months ago the rear hatch handle broke on the BII. So it was a trip to the local Pick a Part to get a new one, While there I got to looking at Explorers and started to think, and you guys know what happens when a BII guy starts to think. No, I didn't walk into a tree.
So I pulled the handle off an Explorer along with a BII handle and started playing around.

The only difference I saw was the Explorer handle had a larger shoulder at the base of the mounting studs (3/4").

So out came the drill.

And this is what I ended up with.

I did a little comparing and the handle off the explorer without the opening glass (that I have here) works fine with the hatch that has an opening glass.
I like the feel of the Explorer handle as it doesn't cut into the hand when turning it and it is easy to grab hold of.

 

[RobbieD]

Nice mod. The comparison photos sure does show the Exploder handle is beefier. Good writeup, and thanks for sharing your great idea. Would you know if the fixed-glass B2 hatch would work as well with the Explorer handle?

 

[Flat Toy]

I think it will. The explorer handle was from fixed glass hatch.

 

[B2 Addict]

Good to know! I know what I will be doing when that BII handle breaks again( & I'm sure it won't be long)

Upgrades always appreciated!

 

[PetesPonies]

I did this mod . . .

http://www.therangerstation.com/forums/showthread.php?t=34903