A toggle release mechanism includes a base element, a toggle element and an actuating rod. The toggle element is rotatably mounted at a first end to the base element about a first axis for rotation between a locking position and a release position. The actuating rod has a central portion extending through the toggle element and first and second end portions projecting on opposed sides thereof for engagement with actuators arranged on opposed sides of the release mechanism. The actuating rod also includes a mounting flange projecting therefrom at a boundary between the central portion and a first end portion. The mounting flange has a first hole therein for receiving a first fastener. A surface of the toggle element facing the mounting flange has a bore formed therein for receiving the first fastener. The mechanism also includes a mounting element slidably received on the second end of the rod.