BEECN Caches: Difference between revisions
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[[File:Troubleshooting Cache Box.png|thumb|''Figure 6: Troubleshooting the Mark I cache lid locking mechanism.'']] | [[File:Troubleshooting Cache Box.png|thumb|''Figure 6: Troubleshooting the Mark I cache lid locking mechanism.'']] | ||
====== Troubleshooting the Mark I cache lid ====== | |||
Because the Mark I boxes have endured years in the elements and rough use, it is not uncommon for them to have problems with the lid latching mechanism (i.e. the lid won't lock shut). BEECN volunteers are encouraged to troubleshoot the problem themselves, but to contact PBEM if they cannot fix the problem. A volunteer may need pliers, a six inch (or larger) adjustable crescent wrench, and a mallet or hammer. | Because the Mark I boxes have endured years in the elements and rough use, it is not uncommon for them to have problems with the lid latching mechanism (i.e. the lid won't lock shut). BEECN volunteers are encouraged to troubleshoot the problem themselves, but to contact PBEM if they cannot fix the problem. A volunteer may need pliers, a six inch (or larger) adjustable crescent wrench, and a mallet or hammer. | ||
Most of the time the remedy involves adjusting one or both of the bolts on the lid. Each bolt is held on by two hexagonal nuts. A six inch (or larger) adjustable wrench works well to loosen these nuts and move the bolt to the left or right, whichever is needed in order for the bolt to snap into place when it connects with the locking mechanism on the main portion of the box. Some trial and error may be needed to get it right. | Most of the time the remedy involves adjusting one or both of the bolts on the lid. Each bolt is held on by two hexagonal nuts. A six inch (or larger) adjustable wrench works well to loosen these nuts and move the bolt to the left or right, whichever is needed in order for the bolt to snap into place when it connects with the locking mechanism on the main portion of the box. Some trial and error may be needed to get it right. | ||
Graphite, | Graphite, Lock-Ease or similar products made for lock mechanisms are the only products that should be used on the lock. Do not use WD-40 or other general purpose "lubricants". Many of these contain solvents that, over time, will make the lock more difficult to operate. | ||
You know you've got it working when you snap the lid shut and then turn the box key from the vertical to the horizontal position '''(don't force it)''' and the two latch handles do not move when you try to open the lid. | You know you've got it working when you snap the lid shut and then turn the box key from the vertical to the horizontal position '''(don't force it)''' and the two latch handles do not move when you try to open the lid. | ||
====== Mark I cache tires and moving the cache ====== | |||
The Mark I was designed to be mobile, with the idea that volunteers would wheel it from its storage location to the BEECN site. In practice, this is can be challenging. The inflatable tires can traverse uneven ground to a point, but do not do well in mud. Because of this, and since a fully loaded cache is over 250 lbs., it takes two people to move one of these caches provided the tires are fully inflated. Otherwise, in an actual deployment, volunteers may need to open the cache and carry supplies to the BEECN site. | |||
