Great for trailers, canopies, service vehicles, etc. This handle is popular when a job requires additional security or a different look to your standard stainless Folding ‘T’ handle. This handle is also referred to as a compression folding T handle and ergo handle.

Given that Locks & Handles are commonly used heavily in the manufacture of camper trailers, caravans and boats you might also be interested in our range Hinges, fasteners, drawer slides, foam & rubber seals, gas struts and much more.

Everything you need to know about a Folding T Handle

The Dunn & Watson Folding T Handle is a compression type lock that’s extremely strong and weatherproof, whilst being easy to use and simple to install. It’s a popular option for caravans, camper trailers, utility vehicles, large toolboxes, 4WD canopies and under tray drawers. This is a flush mounted handle with no visible screws on the outside. It comes with 1, 2 or 3 point options and it can be fitted with rods for wide doors, as well as matched with a padlock for super extra security. Available in a black, chrome or white finish, this is a very stylish handle that’s often used to replace standard stainless steel equivalents or because extra security is needed.

What’s the size of the Whale Tail Folding T Handle?

The dimensions of the Whale Tail are 10cm x 10cm x 10cm. The large handle folds out forwards, so it’s big enough for you to get a good grip, but small enough to do the job. With a weight of 1.5kg, this isn’t a small or lightweight lock, it’s definitely a tough and heavy duty T-Handle Latch that can take the rigours of the road. 

What are the Whale Tail’s features?

The Whale Tail Folding T Handle has all the same features as a standard Folding T-Handle. A nice feature of this handle is that it’s key lockable and the key cylinder is completely covered and hidden by the Whale Tail handle when it’s folded down in the closed position. This helps to keep dust and dirt out of the locking mechanism and keep it hidden from thieves. As mentioned above, you can also attach a padlock through the handle to give you a second point of locking. At the back of the handle there’s also a built-in seal, so you don’t need an additional gasket. 

This is a rear fixing handle with no fixing points on the front for added security. There are four fixing points on the back and it comes with a backing plate that’s very useful if you are fixing it to sheet metal. If you need to fix the handle to timber then you need a longer screw or bolt and washer. A rolling cam that’s adjustable makes for a smoother and easier opening and closing motion.

The compression feature means that as you fold the handle down and recess it to close and lock the drawer, canopy or toolbox, you have a nice tight weather seal. This means that anything stored in the drawer, box or canopy is protected against the elements. The biggest point of difference between a Folding T Handle and other standard handles is that it has pins on the back of the locking mechanism. It’s these pins or studs that can be attached to rods when you have a wide door that needs to be kept securely locked. These rods are available in 1200mm lengths with a 8mm diameter (weight 1kg each) and can be cut down to suit the size of your door (the locking rods need to be purchased separately). These rods are made from mild steel and are zinc plated.

So if you want a T-Handle latch with the option of rods, the Whale Tail is a very stylish handle that gives you lots of security and is easy to use and install.

• Key locking flush mount lock
• Multi-point capability as a 1, 2 or 3 point
• Ergonomic handle for large grip
• Can be used for single or multi-point assembly
• Built-in key cylinder cover
• Stylish black finish
• Compression feature
• A padlock can also be attached to the handle
• Can be fitted with rods
• Integrated flange gasket
• Adjustable compression roller cam
• Rear cam mounted rod studs
• High quality handle
• Comes with two keys

How do you use the Whale Tail Folding T Handle?

This T-Handle latch lock is very easy to use. You simply pull the handle towards you and upwards to expose the key cylinder. Unlock the handle with your key, then twist the handle to open the drawer, canopy or toolbox. To lock the drawer, canopy or toolbox, you simply reverse this process by locking it with the key and then folding the handle downwards. The T-Handle compression latch will then sit flush against the drawer, canopy or toolbox.

How do you install the Whale Tail T-Handle lock?

Installation of the Whale Tail Folding T-Handle latch is very easy. First of all, you need to pull out the ‘paddle’ part of the lock then insert the lock into the door or drawer front. Place the backing plate on the rear of the door or drawer, insert the screws and tighten them. If you’re using rods as well, install these by removing the nuts on the back studs, placing the rods over these points and reattaching the nuts. You might need to adjust the rolling cam of the Folding T Handle lock to ensure a tight weather seal using an Allen key.

Dunn and Watson are manufacturers of quality parts and the Whale Tail Folding T Handle is no exception. If you want added security and a stylish lock that closes flush against the side of the canopy, door or toolbox and has a weatherproof seal, this is the ideal lock for your purposes. It’s available in black, chrome (click here to view the Chrome Folding T Handle), or white (click here to view the white Whale Tail Latch).

We also offer other handle options, including a Folding T Handle with key locking (and a dust cover to keep it free from contamination), flush fit, rubber gasket and water resistance. An adjustable back tongue makes it perfect for fitting to any surface, particularly timber surfaces. It’s the same dimensions as the Whale Tail handle, and is also available in black, but also in blue (click here to view the blue Folding Compression T-Handle) or white (click here to view the white Folding Compression T-Handle). This lock is only 1kg in weight, so it’s a lighter option than the Whale Tail Handle.