Let’s Talk About JR Products 20665 Sliding Mirror Door Catch
The JR Products 20665 Sliding Mirror Door Catch is a seemingly simple component, but essential for anyone who owns an RV or trailer with mirrored wardrobe doors. This unassuming piece of hardware keeps those doors securely closed while you’re navigating bumpy roads. Without it, you’re looking at rattling mirrors, potential damage, and a whole lot of unnecessary noise.
My own journey to finding this particular door catch started with a cross-country RV trip. The original catches on my rig’s mirrored wardrobe doors had long since given up the ghost. Every turn, every bump, and every slight incline turned my bedroom into a cacophony of rattling glass. I needed a solution that was reliable, easy to install, and wouldn’t break the bank.
Initially, I considered universal magnetic catches and even experimented with heavy-duty Velcro. These were either too weak to hold the doors securely, or too difficult to operate smoothly. That’s when I stumbled upon the JR Products 20665, a direct factory replacement designed specifically for RV sliding mirror doors.
My first impression upon receiving the JR Products 20665 Sliding Mirror Door Catch was one of cautious optimism. The plastic felt sturdy enough, but I was initially skeptical about its long-term durability. However, the simple design and included mounting screws suggested a hassle-free installation. Hopefully, this simple piece will do the trick and I can finally enjoy my cross country travels in relative peace and quiet.
Real-World Testing: Putting JR Products 20665 Sliding Mirror Door Catch to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test run with the JR Products 20665 Sliding Mirror Door Catch came during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The roads leading to the campsite were a mix of paved highways and rough gravel tracks. Perfect conditions to test the catch’s ability to keep the mirrored doors in place.
Installation was straightforward; I simply unscrewed the old, broken catch and replaced it with the new JR Products model using the provided screws. The new catch clipped securely around the metal portion of the door, providing a reassuringly firm hold. Throughout the bumpy ride, the doors remained firmly shut. No rattling, no shifting, just blissful silence from the wardrobe area. The peace of mind was well worth the small investment.
There were no issues encountered during this initial trip, so I was cautiously optimistic about the future of this simple part.
Extended Use & Reliability
Now, several months and thousands of miles later, the JR Products 20665 Sliding Mirror Door Catch continues to perform flawlessly. I’ve subjected it to all sorts of conditions, from scorching desert heat to freezing mountain temperatures. The catch shows no signs of wear and tear, and the plastic has not become brittle or discolored.
Maintenance is virtually non-existent. I occasionally wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove dust and grime, but that’s about it. Compared to my previous attempts at makeshift door closures, the JR Products catch is a clear winner in terms of both performance and convenience. My previous solutions would often require constant adjustments and repairs.
Previously, with worn-out catches, I’d be constantly adjusting the doors, tightening screws, and even resorting to duct tape to keep things in place. The JR Products catch has eliminated all of that hassle, giving me more time to enjoy my RV adventures. The doors stay put, I stay sane.
Breaking Down the Features of JR Products 20665 Sliding Mirror Door Catch
Specifications
Universal Fit: Designed to replace both small and large catches typically found on RV sliding mirror doors. This flexibility is a major plus, eliminating the need to measure and search for specific replacement sizes.
Mounting Screws Included: A seemingly small detail, but it saves a trip to the hardware store. The included screws are the correct size and type for easy installation.
Lifetime Warranty: This shows JR Products confidence in the durability of their product. It gives you peace of mind knowing that you’re covered should any defects arise.
Material: Injection molded plastic. While plastic may cause pause for thought in terms of longevity, the selection of plastic ensures it remains relatively lightweight and corrosion-resistant.
Simple Installation: Designed for quick and easy installation. The description holds true to reality, with minimal tools or technical knowledge required.
These specifications translate to a user-friendly experience. The universal fit and included hardware mean you can quickly replace a broken catch without any fuss. The lifetime warranty is a testament to the JR Products commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the JR Products 20665 Sliding Mirror Door Catch is to securely hold sliding mirror doors in place while traveling. It excels at this task, preventing rattling, shifting, and potential damage to the mirrors. The catch clips firmly around the metal portion of the door, providing a strong and reliable hold.
While the design is simple, the execution is effective. There are no complicated mechanisms or moving parts to fail. It’s a straightforward solution that works as intended.
There is nothing complicated about it. It either works or it doesn’t and, in this case, it works as expected.
Design & Ergonomics
The JR Products 20665 Sliding Mirror Door Catch features a basic and functional design. The plastic construction is lightweight and resistant to corrosion. The shape is optimized for easy clipping and secure holding.
There’s no real learning curve. Installation takes just a few minutes. The simple design requires no prior experience or technical expertise.
The materials are not particularly fancy but are fit for purpose and well crafted.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its plastic construction, the long-term durability of the JR Products 20665 Sliding Mirror Door Catch was my initial concern. However, after months of use in various conditions, it has proven to be surprisingly resilient. The plastic hasn’t cracked, warped, or become brittle.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The simplicity of the design also means there are fewer parts that could potentially break or require repair. The lifetime warranty offers added reassurance, suggesting that JR Products stands behind the quality of their product.
It is worth mentioning that while the plastic seems durable, extreme abuse might cause the catch to fail. However, for normal usage, it seems perfectly durable.
Accessories and Customization Options
As a simple door catch, the JR Products 20665 Sliding Mirror Door Catch doesn’t come with any accessories or offer much in the way of customization. Its primary function is to replace an existing catch, and it performs that task effectively.
However, you could potentially customize the look by painting it to match your RV’s interior, but that would void the warranty and might affect its performance. Realistically, this is a functional item, not a decorative one.
You do not need any accessories to use this part, and it is meant to be a direct replacement for a broken or missing factory part.
Pros and Cons of JR Products 20665 Sliding Mirror Door Catch
Pros
- Easy Installation: Replaces old hardware in just minutes with a simple screwdriver. No complex modifications are required.
Cons
- Plastic Construction: While durable enough for its intended purpose, the plastic may not withstand extreme abuse.
Universal Fit: Compatible with both small and large RV sliding mirror doors, so you’re sure it will fit.
Effective Hold: The catch securely holds the door in place. Thus preventing rattling and damage during travel.
Lifetime Warranty: Guarantees against defects and material failure for the life of the product.
Inexpensive: Great value at just under $10, an affordable solution to a frustrating problem.
Basic Design: Lacks any aesthetic flourishes; a purely functional replacement part.
Who Should Buy JR Products 20665 Sliding Mirror Door Catch?
The JR Products 20665 Sliding Mirror Door Catch is perfect for RV owners, trailer enthusiasts, and anyone with sliding mirror doors that need a reliable and affordable replacement catch. It’s a must-have for those who value a quiet and secure travel experience.
Those who are expecting a high-end, aesthetically pleasing solution might want to look elsewhere. Also, those who are prone to slamming doors or subjecting hardware to excessive force may find the plastic construction inadequate.
No specific accessories or modifications are required to use this product, although you may want to purchase a small screwdriver if you don’t already own one.
Conclusion on JR Products 20665 Sliding Mirror Door Catch
The JR Products 20665 Sliding Mirror Door Catch is a simple, effective, and affordable solution for securing sliding mirror doors in RVs and trailers. Despite its plastic construction, it has proven to be surprisingly durable and reliable. The easy installation, universal fit, and lifetime warranty make it a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking to eliminate rattling doors and enjoy a more peaceful travel experience.
At $8.99, the price is more than justified. Given the frustration and potential damage caused by unsecured doors, this is a small price to pay for peace of mind. I wholeheartedly recommend the JR Products 20665 Sliding Mirror Door Catch to anyone in need of a reliable replacement.
Don’t let rattling doors ruin your next adventure. Invest in the JR Products 20665 Sliding Mirror Door Catch and experience the joy of a quiet and secure RV.