Adding a sealing gasket to the LEA TurnLock series
The LEAGIR sealing gasket can be added to a Light-Duty Easy Assembly (LEA) TurnLock fastener to improve the seal between the stud head and the outer panel.
Sealing gaskets are already available for several TurnLock series, including MTH, HGR and HHS. The LEAGIR gasket provides a similar solution for the LEA series without significantly increasing the installation time.
The final level of water protection depends on the complete assembly, panel surface, gasket compression and installation quality. The finished application should therefore be tested when a specific waterproof or IP rating is required.
Main advantage of the LEA assembly
LEA receptacles are clipped or snapped into place, while the stud is retained using a plastic retaining washer. Adding the LEAGIR gasket is an additional installation step, but it does not require special tools.
The LEAGIR sealing gasket
The LEAGIR is positioned beneath the head of the TurnLock stud. When the fastener is closed, the gasket is compressed against the outer panel to help prevent water from entering through the stud opening.
Step 1: calculate the required stud length
The LEAGIR gasket has a thickness of approximately 1 mm. This additional thickness must be included when calculating the required stud grip length.
Add approximately 1 mm to the normal grip calculation for the selected LEA receptacle configuration.
| Assembly configuration | Grip calculation including gasket |
|---|---|
| Basic panel assembly | G = P + 1 |
| Assembly with 1.2 mm allowance | G = P + 1.2 + 1 |
| Assembly using the minimum X value | G = P + F + X + 1 − 0.8 |
| Assembly using the maximum allowance | G = P + F + X + 1 + 0.4 |
In these formulas, the additional 1 represents the approximate 1 mm thickness of the LEAGIR gasket. Use the formula that corresponds to the selected receptacle and panel configuration.
Step 2: prepare the required components
Before starting the installation, prepare all components required for the LEA TurnLock assembly:
- The correctly sized LEA TurnLock stud
- The selected clip-on or snap-in LEA receptacle
- The plastic retaining washer specified for the assembly
- The LEAGIR sealing gasket
Step 3: place the LEAGIR gasket on the stud
Slide the LEAGIR gasket over the stud and position it directly beneath the stud head. Ensure that the gasket lies flat and is not twisted or damaged.
Step 4: install the stud in the outer panel
- Insert the stud and attached LEAGIR gasket through the prepared opening in the outer panel.
- Make sure the gasket sits evenly between the stud head and the panel surface.
- Install the plastic retaining washer on the rear side of the panel to retain the stud.
Step 5: assemble and close the two panels
Install the LEA receptacle in the supporting panel or frame. Position the two panels together and align the stud with the receptacle.
Close the TurnLock fastener and check that the gasket is compressed evenly against the outer panel. The gasket should form a continuous seal without being pinched or pushed out from beneath the stud head.
Important sealing checks
Check the panel surface
The sealing surface should be flat, clean and free from scratches, burrs or contamination that could create a leak path beneath the gasket.
Confirm the stud length
A stud that is too short may not engage correctly. A stud that is too long may not provide enough gasket compression.
Inspect the gasket
Do not install a gasket that is torn, permanently deformed or incorrectly positioned beneath the stud head.
Test the finished assembly
Perform an appropriate water-ingress test when the application must meet a defined waterproof or IP protection requirement.
Conclusion
The LEAGIR gasket provides a quick way to improve water sealing in a Light-Duty Easy Assembly TurnLock installation while retaining the fast, tool-free installation advantages of the LEA series.
For additional information about the LEAGIR gasket, stud-length selection or the complete LEA assembly, contact [email protected].