Some members here are familiar with another forum devoted to RV/camper conversions of the home built variety which oddly enough seem to favor E-Series than anything else---great site if only for that reason alone! One nice side benefit is products created mostly for the RV/camper crowd sometimes easily find uses on other vans too. One example is something dubbed The Door Talon:



Used on the smaller side barn door when properly installed will hold it open against the body. This is very handy if parked nose down on a slope or the wind wants close the door. If having that door remain open is the goal this might be one good answer.

Comes as a DIY kit as shown, very well made with full illustrated instructions included. There are two versions, one each to accommodate different years hinges. Unknown (or unobserved) to me there are at least two types of hinges which affect the distance of the door shell from the body when opened as far as they'll allow so there is need for at least two different lengths of these door talons.

Shown here is one versions final installation:



And here's my own Door Talon (longer version) in place and working:



I've made and used several things with this same intent but for my money and time the door talon does it so much better. I'll be inviting the creator to come join us to answer any questions. He does sell them direct but that would probably require PM's here on FTE.

$35 including shipping (both versions)----not a bad price IMHO.

Just a good idea I thought others here would find interesting or useful.

Thanks for looking!

 

+1 on the Door Talon being a super-useful thing to have if you have the side barn doors. I put one on my E250 last year and use it all the time.

It was invented by a guy on the Sportsmobile Forum, and he makes it and sells it out of his home. The kit is very well thought out and the directions are great. Includes everything you need to install (and it's easy).

Another satisfied customer...

 

Hey Brian---good to see ya again!

I invited John to come join us here in case there would be any questions etc---he's MIA so far!

 

omg just what i have been looking for

 

And they work too!

 

where can i buy one?

 

PM Sent!

Dang FTE says the above message is too short!

 

Hey all,
Does anyone know where I can get one of these?

Thanks!

 

You'll be shocked where these can be found---------check your PM's!

 

accomplishment and functionality seems to be germany-engineered ;-) good Job. will rebuild on my own, for my self

 

cord n bumper eyebolts. knots extra.

 

Just use a bungee cord

 

Those look slick!

It's a shame things wouldn't line up for them to work on my Transit. Ours has the long wheelbase and the geometry work out. The company installing the wheelchair lift will be installing a cable of some sort to do the same thing.

 

Door Talons for Econoline Van Barn Doors are available if you are looking for them. $46 includes postage to US addresses. Please PM me or contact me. Thxs, Ray

 

Good to see you here on FTE Ray!