Expert: James - 2/10/2009

Question
I have several 50s era Yale locksets, some privacy locks some passage on interior doors.  Between the knob and the flange that covers the hole in the door there are two holes that are on the shaft that the knob is attached to that does not move when the knob is turned. The holes, top and bottom,aresmall, they would not accomodate much more than a large paperclip.The flanges on each side mesh with a threaded sleeve that tightens by hand to the shaft that runs all the way through the door.  After trying eveything I could think of, I've replaced literally 100 knobs, and having damaged the knob beyond usability I took the door to the shop and sawzalled the knob off.  This provided no insight as it was destroyed thoroughly.I can't figure what, if anything the holes are for.  I put a good sized paperclip in the holes, top and bottom and the only result seems to be that when the knob is turned the paperclips are ejected.  There must be some way to remove these knobs that is easier than the sawzall.  Any suggestions?  Thanks for any help.
Best regards,
Mark Bowen

Answer
Hello Mark,

If they are mortise locks:

There should be a set screw in one of the holes.  The hole would be larger than a paperclip, probably about 3/16" diameter and would likely have a flathead screw.  That screw tightens against the threaded spindle holding the knob in place.  If the screws are missing it's likely the knobs are rusted or otherwise just plain stuck on the spindle.

If they are cylindrical or tubular locks:

The small holes should contain a retainer, one hole that is not both.  Depress the retainer and pull the knob off.  On the keyed side of the lock insert a working key turn it 45 degrees then depress the retainer and pull the knob off.

James
www.jmlock.com