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Locksmithing/Questions Answered by Expert Lynn Chambers
| Subject | Date Asked |
| 1-3/4" back-set lock/latch | 10/13/2011 |
| Q: I have a patio glass door with 3.5" rails. I can't seem to find a latch or deadbolt with 1-3/4" ... A: You could try a lockshop where you live locally. Adams Rite and others makes some interesting ... | |
| Key Core Stuck | 10/11/2011 |
| Q: I have a Best key core (see attachment) that will not release from the door knob when using the core ... A: I have had some knobsets do this as well. Seems the older ones have a sleeve of sorts-as if two ... | |
| Metalware Cleaning - Stumped! | 10/4/2011 |
| Q: May I begin by thanking you so much for taking time to advise us in this way, it is impressive and ... A: It was just a brass kick plate, probably brass on steel. I got talked into cleaning for an elderly ... | |
| LORI Deadbolt Removal | 10/3/2011 |
| Q: You replied back in 2003 to a question about removing a LORI deadbolt that one needed to insert an ... A: Are you using the provided allen wrench-the one that came in the box with the lock? If not, thats ... | |
| Masterkeying | 9/29/2011 |
| Q: I would like to know if I can masterkey(?) an office, it has 20 interior offices and two exterior ... A: Yes you can master key all of that. However the exterior door may need to be maison keyed to have ... | |
| Welch Dead Bolt | 9/25/2011 |
| Q: I also have a 50's Welch dead bolt and don't see how to take it apart. both sides have 2-3 sets of ... A: Take the cover off the door edge, and there should be a retaining screw inside where the bolt comes ... | |
| Vintage Yale Mortise Locks | 9/4/2011 |
| Q: I am trying to return the original Yale mortise locks in my home to function condition. Taking them ... A: It is possible the inside cylinders are keyed differently or that the inside cylinders are not as ... | |
| stuck drawers in filing cabinet | 8/31/2011 |
| Q: i have a Cole 5 drawer blueprint filing cabinet which I have had for 20+ years. The cabinet locks ... A: Walter, did you recently move the cabinet with items intact? Moving a filing cabinet with the ... | |
| deadbolt question | 7/24/2011 |
| Q: Am building a new house , i have patio door that need a deadbolt, i cant fined one with short latch, ... A: Adams Rite comes to mind-try this link for dimensions on vaious narrow style locks they make.By the ... | |
| panic bar repair | 7/20/2011 |
| Q: My church has a panic bar assembly on several doors. Someone has stuck something in the lock ... A: Looks like an old Sargent panic device, most likely there is a rim cylinder where you put the key. ... | |
| Passage Lockset Replacement | 7/17/2011 |
| Q: I am trying to replace a set of Sargent passage locksets with Baldwin's 5460.264.PRIV. 1) I showed ... A: No I never had to replace one of those before. The 2-1/8 hole is now standard for all tubular ... | |
| Old Yale Mortise Lock | 7/14/2011 |
| Q: I am renovating an old house and am working on the old exterior french doors. They currently have ... A: The locksmith couldn't fit a key to the lock cylinders? That would be the easiest solution if the ... | |
| weiser door lock | 7/10/2011 |
| Q: im trying to tighten the handle of my door but cant seem to get it apart to get to the inside of it. ... A: Might you have a mortice Lock? If thats the case the knobs are tightened with a spanner wrench. ... | |
| What type of buzzer system needed for door entry | 7/10/2011 |
| Q: I purchased a storefront door and it came with the electric door stike, and the paddle lock handle ... A: Yes you could install something simple like that. AIPHONE makes complete systems and intercoms for ... | |
| national door lock | 6/26/2011 |
| Q: I have an older national front door lock. ive looked for replacements. cant find any. its the top ... A: Sounds like it is a National brand,mortise lock cylinder. If you can unscrew it from the door, take ... | |
| Slaymaker lock | 6/19/2011 |
| Q: Lynn,I inherited a slaymaker lock from my brother when I bought his racing 16 speed bike.I lost the ... A: You can still get key blanks for these from blue dog keys-http://www.bluedogkeys.com/ Email sales ... | |
| institutional locksmithing job help | 6/5/2011 |
| Q: I read an answer to a previous post in which you offered to help someone find employment if you ... A: http://www.getlocksmithjobs.com The above URL is a great place to start, and it is free to join and ... | |
| yale exterior door lock and dead bolt. | 5/7/2011 |
| Q: we have an old house and recently wanted to change the locks and handles.The locksmith we got said ... A: Photos are helpful, but it sounds like a mortise lock. You can upgrade it by removing all the ... | |
| Yale Mortised Dead Bolt 1927 | 4/16/2011 |
| Q: I purchased a home built in 1927. The old locks are wonderful. I am remodeling a bathroom and need ... A: Any locksmith shop specializing in antique locks or a hardware restoration company (Ricca's in New ... | |
| car lock stuck in open C position | 4/3/2011 |
| Q: I have had this issue before since I live near the beach. But I thought they where OK when I got the ... A: Firstly,I would take it to a body shop and see what the problem is. I never advise folks to start ... | |
| Deadlock mechanism stuck in door. | 3/20/2011 |
| Q: My husband is trying to remove an old deadbolt to change it and he's running into some problems ... A: You might have to destroy it to get it out but try the following first-Pick up on the door using the ... | |
| cal-royal removal | 3/18/2011 |
| Q: how do I remove an entire cal-royal lever door knob?? A: Use the key on the outside to turn the KIK cylinder and use a pin or paperclip to depress the ... | |
| Door knob 5.5 inches from the edge | 3/2/2011 |
| Q: We just moved in to a house that was built in the 60's with a cool front door. I want to change the ... A: You should take a few photos of it and go around to some local locksmith shops to see if any of them ... | |
| Deadbolt keeps turning | 2/27/2011 |
| Q: When I put the key in the outside of the door, the deadbolt keeps turning and it won't allow me to ... A: This is for a round deadbolt only-Sounds like the tailpiece which connects to the bolt is broken or ... | |
| Discontinued part | 2/15/2011 |
| Q: A torsion spring in an old (~50 year) handleset has broken. (See attached pdf.) Weiser tells me ... A: Either buy a lock hole boring jig and re-drill the hole to the now standard 2 and 1/8" hole(Dewalt ... | |
| Discontinued part | 2/9/2011 |
| Q: A torsion spring in an old (~50 year) handleset has broken. (See attached pdf.) Weiser tells me ... A: http://www.weiserlock.com/en/Products/ProductSeries/WelcomeHome.aspx The link above is the product ... | |
| Discontinued part | 2/2/2011 |
| Q: A torsion spring in an old (~50 year) handleset has broken. (See attached pdf.) Weiser tells me ... A: If you know the model number, I will tell you it is possible to buy a complete knob set exactly like ... | |
| Can't find answers about push antique push button front door | 1/22/2011 |
| Q: So far nobody has been able to help me. We bought a house last year with the original wood door, ... A: Home Depot and Lowes have a decent selection of new handles called "pitcher handle" entry locksets. ... | |
| vintage locking steering wheel | 1/11/2011 |
| Q: I purchased a vintage steering wheel at an automotive flea market with no key. The lock is a corbin. ... A: I would not recommend drilling anything antique-you wont be able to replace it that is for sure. ... | |
| copied keys don't work well | 12/27/2010 |
| Q: I have one key that works well in the doors on my house. I've tried to get copies made of it. ... A: Take the one key the works the best to a Locksmith shop instead of the hardware store or wherever ... | |
| Olympic Locksets | 12/22/2010 |
| Q: .Brand Name OLYMPIC..now these are a lot smaller than say Schlage..the hole for the door is about 1 ... A: I think to modernize your doors you will need to buy a jig to re-drill those holes and install a ... | |
| slightly sticking latch | 12/19/2010 |
| Q: I recently changed a lockset for a friend(Free)on their front and back exterior doors. I can't ... A: Youre correct in assuming the holes arent drilled straight causing the latch to bind when the ... | |
| rekeying | 12/6/2010 |
| Q: I have found on the internet where I can purchase a schlage lock cylinder that accepts a kwikset ... A: No they are two entirely different keyways. Now, if you can get a composite cylinder, (Ilco used to ... | |
| Disabling a Classroom Door Knob's Auto-locking function | 11/18/2010 |
| Q: I am using a Classroom Function Door Knob - Always Locked from outside, needs a key to unlock, and ... A: That is called a storeroom function lockset-classroom is locked or unlock by key from outside. ... | |
| Double door locking pin assemble | 11/10/2010 |
| Q: I have several double doors to my deck that have working locking pins (into the header and foot)but ... A: I dont have any idea-without a photo or at least a brand name for the part you need, I cannot help ... | |
| Harloc double sided dead bolt | 11/10/2010 |
| Q: How do you remove a Harloc double sided deadbolt? A: Harloc, if memory serves, has a screw on each side of the lock body. Remove these and it comes ... | |
| Padlocks | 11/4/2010 |
| Q: I have a car lot(dealership) and am wondering which shrouded padlock is the best. Keep in mind that ... A: Depends on which type of shrouded padlock you want as to the brand, but I will say you would have ... | |
| 1.5 inch deadbolt | 10/29/2010 |
| Q: I am doing a job that the deadbolt is 1.5 inches does schlage or any complany still make on for ... A: ILCO makes a lock with a body and backset in 2" formerly known as a "lori" lock. If you're in the ... | |
| Slaymaker Lock Question | 10/25/2010 |
| Q: Lynn, I have Slaymaker combination padlock that belonged to my deceased father and would like to ... A: Neat Lock! Depending on the age of it, a locksmith shop who deals in antique locks may have an older ... | |
| Neither handle on a door will engage the latch fully | 10/15/2010 |
| Q: I have an LSDA-branded lockset and handle (pitcher on one side, ball knob on the other). The handle ... A: LSDA is a Locksmith only brand made by IDN Acme, a locksmith supply distributor. If you need a ... | |
| Powerbolt 1000 | 10/15/2010 |
| Q: We cannot remove the key without unlocking the door. Help please! A: You need to read the instructions that came with it, when you installed it. I have never installed ... | |
| Yale 830 Padlock | 10/3/2010 |
| Q: I have a Yale 830 padlock that I'm trying to repin. I can't figure out how to release the cylinder. ... A: I have never had to re-key one of these, however my best guess is that hole is meant for a stiff ... | |
| Schilage single cylinder Deadbolt assembly | 10/3/2010 |
| Q: I have removed the dead bolt and wanted to put it back. Could you guide in assembling the dead bolt? ... A: I went to the Schlage website and here is one PDF explaining how to install some of their B60 locks: ... | |
| Identifying type of door lock | 9/27/2010 |
| Q: I am trying to replace a entry door lock which has a mortise passage set, The outside has a old ... A: I have no idea without some photos of it. The inside knob might be easy to replace if you buy the ... | |
| frozen weslock exterior door latch | 9/27/2010 |
| Q: I have a Weslock exterior door latch (bolt mechanism) that has evidently broken or failed inside. ... A: That works also-Weslock should still have replacement latches-be sure you get an entry latch versus ... | |
| Weiser Indicator Deadbolt Lock D9770X | 9/26/2010 |
| Q: I work at a small hotel built in the 80's. The exterior room doors have Kwikset deadbolts with a ... A: All I can find online is Schlage and Falcon locks, but they are one sided and used for restrooms. ... | |
| frozen weslock exterior door latch | 9/25/2010 |
| Q: I have a Weslock exterior door latch (bolt mechanism) that has evidently broken or failed inside. ... A: Can you see the latch where it goes into the door frame? If so, you might have enough gap to place a ... | |
| cannot open from outside when locked | 9/24/2010 |
| Q: My husband has installed a schlage lock on our front door. It has a handle on the inside and ... A: Ok-the leverset(in place of a door knob)will not open from the outside but opens from the inside of ... | |
| Stripped deadbolt | 9/24/2010 |
| Q: I don't know how long it usually takes to get an answer on here but I'm hoping for the best. I'm ... A: Josh it sounds like the retaining clip is broken off the tailpiece on the Kwikset deadbolt. A common ... | |
| installingYale deadbolt lock. | 9/22/2010 |
| Q: My front door metal security door was installed some 15 years ago. It had a Yale double cylinder ... A: George, no problem there, but I will need to see exactly what you are replacing. Photos of the old ... | |
| Kwikset double key deadbolt | 9/12/2010 |
| Q: I installed kwikset deadbolt with key on each side. inside key can't be removed unless bolt is ... A: The tailpieces are not correctly orientated; turn the outside cylinder with the tailpiece towards ... | |
| safe-combination | 9/11/2010 |
| Q: I have a mosler safe that is open but can't shut it because I don't know the combination. It was ... A: You will need the services of a local safe technician-consult your telephone book and call around ... | |
| master pins | 9/10/2010 |
| Q: Can a locksmith remove the plug of a locked door and adjust the pins so that a key will not even go ... A: Depends on what brand you're working on. If it is a cheap lock, no unless you use all number 9 pins ... | |
| bed/bath privacy door knob | 9/10/2010 |
| Q: I am trying to find a bed/bath privacey door knob. Not just any door knob. This style has push ... A: Possibly you are speaking of Weslock, circa 1970's-I will attempt to a attach a photo or link so you ... | |
| master key pinning | 9/9/2010 |
| Q: i know how to master key as it relates to a change key. I write the master key code, and directly ... A: The same way, the lowest to highest common factors. Best re-keying is also the same. Try and get a ... | |
| front door deadbolt and keyed locksets | 9/1/2010 |
| Q: I have an older house front door with dead bolt on top and keyed lock below. Each has a distance of ... A: The deadbolts can be replaced with an ILCO/Lori deadbolt. These might be special order from a ... | |
| Antique 2 button lock | 8/31/2010 |
| Q: My friend called from San Francisco asking if I could help her repair a '2 button lock.' She thinks ... A: Definately these can be repaired-they are called mortise locks, and the buttons are to change the ... | |
| auto foil impressioning car | 8/31/2010 |
| Q: where can i buy one are do you no what i mean A: I have heard of these, however to my knowledge you must be a Locksmith with a current state license ... | |
| Help to remove Ideal Security Lock | 8/27/2010 |
| Q: Lock of the main door of my house recently broke, and I need some help to remove it. The lock system ... A: John-there has to be some set or hex screws somewhere on the lock body. I would carefully pry it ... | |
| Find an old latch | 8/26/2010 |
| Q: I have a weiser 1950?? very close to date house built in 1951 A630 door knob and I need a ... A: Weiser is still amking locks, and chances are any locksmith shop specializing in antique locks may ... | |
| Tubelite locks | 8/25/2010 |
| Q: I have been asked to re-key some tubelite locks at a business. And I am not sure how to take off ... A: Tubelite sounds like it is a brand like Kwaneer, simply the brand of aluminum door you're working ... | |
| Mortise lock removal | 8/18/2010 |
| Q: Lynn, We have a very old front door mortise handleset. The exterior latch will no longer work ... A: Pull it towards you while on the outside of the door. There should be a bolt or screw on the bottom ... | |
| Mortise lock removal | 8/12/2010 |
| Q: Lynn, We have a very old front door mortise handleset. The exterior latch will no longer work ... A: Remove the screws on the door edge, all of them. Then remove the screws under the plate on the door ... | |
| changing handle set to lever | 8/5/2010 |
| Q: I currently have a handle set that has one deadbolt only. I want to change it to a set with a ... A: Jen I need photos of what you have on the door already; inside and outside. I am assuming you have a ... | |
| WEIGHT OF A SAFE | 7/30/2010 |
| Q: Patrick D. Harrington This is not a homework question! It is a legitimate question! We cannot ... A: Patrick, I am NOT a safe technician, and therefore absolutly cannot answer that for you. However, ... | |
| Where can I get keys for older York fireproof file cabinets? | 7/15/2010 |
| Q: We bought several York 4 drawer fireproof file cabinets back in the 80's and when we shut down the ... A: Try Blue-Dog Keys for the key blanks, if a local locksmith cannot get them. Typically if there is a ... | |
| broken lock/latch | 7/14/2010 |
| Q: We have a Hardware House reversible leverset Front & Back door lock. The latch got stuck, so I ... A: Well, although a photo would've helped, I suggest you pull the latch towards the hinges. When I say ... | |
| Pad locks for job site | 7/7/2010 |
| Q: We just had our job box broken into on a job site. They drilled out the lock to get in. Is there a ... A: Steve I would recommend the thickest aircraft cable or chain you can find to secure your tools. The ... | |
| door handle spindle | 7/3/2010 |
| Q: We are living Greece and have passage doors with handles that are constantly coming off the ... A: Sargent makes a "split spindle" similar to what you probably have. Available from any locksmith ... | |
| quality door locks | 6/24/2010 |
| Q: I am changing out all of the door knobs and deadbolts in my home. I would like to install secure ... A: Stan it depends on what you want and what you are willing to spend on what you want. If you want ... | |
| Steamer Trunk lock | 6/18/2010 |
| Q: I am trying to pick the lock on an antique steamer trunk, spring lock I believe. I have a small ... A: Here is a link to replacement locks for some of these trunks and what the original keys might have ... | |
| Removing "Ideal Security" Jimmy-Proof Lock | 6/15/2010 |
| Q: I have an "Ideal Security" Jimmy Proof Lock on my front door that has been there since well before I ... A: Those flathead screws on the inside of the door-take them off and remove the lever, then see what ... | |
| Removing deadbolt lock on closed door with no key | 6/14/2010 |
| Q: I justed move into a home that has a deadbolt lock on a storage closet under the stairs inside. The ... A: Are there any screws exposed on the inside of the door? If so, take them off and remove the lock. Or ... | |
| Privacy Lever for Thick Doors | 6/14/2010 |
| Q: I'm looking for a Privacy Lever for a 3" thick door, any suggestions where to look?? A: You will most likely need to consult with a locksmith shop to special order something, as many of ... | |
| Picking a door lock | 6/11/2010 |
| Q: I bought the basic tools, to pick a door deadbolt [horizontally sliding bolt] lock. I was able to ... A: That is correct-one you get it picked it should turn all the way; however if there is mushroom pins ... | |
| toolbox | 6/10/2010 |
| Q: i lost the keys to my truck toolbox and i need to know if i can replace the lock?the box is open but ... A: Depending on the type of lock you might be able to purchase another. What brand is the tool box? Is ... | |
| stuck file cabinet drawer | 6/8/2010 |
| Q: I have a Hon Lateral 2 drawer file cabinet (approximate age 8-9 years old) We moved it. The ... A: Most of these are hopeless once you move the cabinet. You have to get the drawers straight in order ... | |
| Synchronized locks in a bathroom | 6/3/2010 |
| Q: Problem: A 2-door residential bathroom, with typical family daily use. I want to be able to lock ... A: My suggestion would be some type of stand alone electronic lock-however, most of these are ... | |
| Corbin double cylinder | 6/3/2010 |
| Q: Lynn I have a commercial grade double cylinder lock on our home's back door. (We keep a key in the ... A: It is exactly like you said, and it frequently happens the same way in commercial applications. I ... | |
| indoors lock | 6/2/2010 |
| Q: I have an internal door which is refusing to open. It is not locked shut. I have removed the handle ... A: Jeremy-is the door wet or swollen from rain? Is the latch jammed in the strike, where it goes into ... | |
| Locksets for thick doors | 6/2/2010 |
| Q: I have an entry door that is 3" thick. It's built to be a carriage house door on a converted garage. ... A: Most door knobs and deadbolts will fit that size of door. If not, a local locksmith in your area can ... | |
| INDOOR LOCK | 5/30/2010 |
| Q: I CANNOT REMOVE A LOCK ON A DOOR! THERE ARE NO SCREWS ON EITHER SIDE TO LOOSEN. THERE IS A SMALL ... A: You might need the key to remove it from the outside-turn the key to unlock, and use a paperclip or ... | |
| jammed lock | 5/22/2010 |
| Q: My daughter jammed the lock of our front door by playing with keys that do not correspond to the ... A: No im sorry-this is a mortise lock with looks like a Sargent mortise cylinder. Definately not a do ... | |
| Removing locking door knob | 5/21/2010 |
| Q: Door knob is key locking on exterior, turn button on inside to lock/unlock. Everything seems frozen, ... A: Kwikset or Titan? And a few other brands,You have to push in the latch bolt to release the knob for ... | |
| Entry Door Lock | 5/19/2010 |
| Q: I am in charge of a fraternity house on college campus. We recently have been having trouble with ... A: Depending on a number of factors with the door itself, you could have a keyless lock installed with ... | |
| door lever locks | 5/18/2010 |
| Q: I’m the maintenance and operations director for a 60 room hotel in NH. Our door lever locks are ... A: Randy-I do not have much experience with hotel locks. I can, how ever, tell you this;if it has a ... | |
| removing schlage deadbolt | 5/17/2010 |
| Q: on a schlage double sided deadbolt, there are covers over the retaining screws. How do you remove ... A: Take a light, and look carefully around the edge of the cylinder. Use a small pocket knife blade and ... | |
| schlage | 5/11/2010 |
| Q: I recently replaced my schlage deadbolt with a new schlage deadbolt. The problem is when both ... A: Is the latch being tilted as the screws are tightened? Are the latch screws tight on the door edge? ... | |
| double clinder lock removal | 5/7/2010 |
| Q: I have a double cylinder lock and can not figure out how to remove it. I looked on the side of the ... A: Ruth-meet Lori-Thats the name of the lock you're working on. I have a few theories on why: I have ... | |
| Yale LFIC 7 pin lock | 5/4/2010 |
| Q: I have several Yale LFIC 7 pin cylinders that I need to rekey. I have never done a IC Core lock ... A: anytime that is why I volunteered. Remember this-all major manufacturers post PDF's online on their ... | |
| Yale LFIC 7 pin lock | 5/3/2010 |
| Q: I have several Yale LFIC 7 pin cylinders that I need to rekey. I have never done a IC Core lock ... A: Jason, assuming you are a locksmith-try this link: ... | |
| Lori deadbolt locked shut | 5/2/2010 |
| Q: Lynn, I just moved into a new house and a back door has a Lori deadbolt that is locked shut. There ... A: Greg, you need someone to flush out the lock-NO GRAPHITE-USE SILICONE LUBRICANT and try the key-if ... | |
| pella door lock | 5/1/2010 |
| Q: have a pella door lock. the latch will not pull in far enough to allow opening the door. There is a ... A: Pella doors and windows has a website, and you should contact them for parts. Take a credit card or ... | |
| 1960s mobile home 1 1/8" thick entry door lock | 4/26/2010 |
| Q: Please help me! the lock on my front door is kaput.. but I can't find one for a door that's only 1 ... A: Photos are very helpful-does it have the standard 2 and 3/8" backset? is the hole 2" in diameter or ... | |
| Unable to lock the boot | 4/25/2010 |
| Q: Recently, the boot of my Mercedes A-class 160 stopped getting locked by the remote control central ... A: Sounds like you need to contact a locksmith in the UK-perhaps there is some trash in the lock ... | |
| How to disable ancient Schlage locks? | 4/23/2010 |
| Q: Our house was built in 1939 and I'm sure the bedroom door knobs are original. They are bronze in ... A: REPLACE IT! You have a common knobset, easily replacable with an $8.99 "passage" set from any ... | |
| replacing a lockset | 4/23/2010 |
| Q: I have a ISDA front door key lock with a push button in the center of the inside handle. I would ... A: LSDA-Locksmith Dealers of America? If so, the Yes you can replace it-find the hole on the inside ... | |
| How to disable ancient Schlage locks? | 4/22/2010 |
| Q: Our house was built in 1939 and I'm sure the bedroom door knobs are original. They are bronze in ... A: Well to be able to "Correctly" disable it-you need to send me some photos of the door edge where the ... | |
| broken lever lock release | 4/20/2010 |
| Q: After years of use our second drawer lever lock release snapped. This an insulated file cabinet. Any ... A: Isthis a data safe? Is this made by Fire King? Anyway it goes,you need to CALL a locksmith-this is ... | |
| found key | 4/18/2010 |
| Q: Found a square gold key with AC17 on one side and Do Not Duplicate on the other... what does it go ... A: More than likely-the "do not duplicate" also makes the key hard to identify,unless it was stamped on ... | |
| Yale knob removal | 4/8/2010 |
| Q: I have a Yale 8705 lock. I cannot remove the door knob from the lock. The lock is broke and I cannot ... A: Is it a mortise lock or a true tubular lock? I looked in a Yale catalog, and an 8700 and 8800 is a ... | |
| keep a deadlatch unlocked | 3/31/2010 |
| Q: We have a deadlatch with a push paddle handle on the inside at our office. We want the deadlatch to ... A: Since you did not include a photo, I am assuming it is a hospital paddle with a latch, and no lock ... | |
| master keying | 3/30/2010 |
| Q: I have several locks i need to master key, i think i understand the concept. The problem i'm having ... A: Ok-do any of the operating keys work on any of the locks you changed? Not the master key but the ... | |
| lost key | 3/21/2010 |
| Q: I have a Steelmaster 2 drawer legal sized file cabinet with a lock. The lock says "ASCO 36 AS" I ... A: From any locksmith- look on the lock face and get the code numbers/letters located there. Call a ... | |
| removal of Lori deadbolt | 3/20/2010 |
| Q: I am trying to replace a Lori deadbolt. I removed the two screws from the interior side of the ... A: You need a special allen wrench available from a locksmith supply house;contact either a locksmith, ... | |
| Dexter closet handle removal | 3/19/2010 |
| Q: I have a round closet door knob with no visible way to remove it. There are no locks involved on ... A: Get a strong flashlight, and observe the inside door knob between the knob and rose that attaches to ... | |
| Which locks | 3/13/2010 |
| Q: I want to change locks, I bought Schlage locks but the repairman said it's a different size compared ... A: Yes, Schlage is a better lock; is the backset longer on the new locks? Most of them, can be ajusted ... | |
| Cemetery Mausoleum Vault Key | 3/8/2010 |
| Q: The Family Mausoleum has a Sargent & Greenleaf latch on the main door. We only have one key and ... A: Facinating key I must say; to my knowledge none of the books I have on key blanks lists this blank. ... | |
| Lock Removal | 3/8/2010 |
| Q: I have a Cole Universal Storage metal cabinet and cannot get the lock assembly out of the ... A: It might not come out. If it can press down on the last wafer in the lock;this is usually the ... | |
| pick proof lock | 3/7/2010 |
| Q: Is there such a thing as a pick proof padlock. If so could you recommend the co. and or special ... A: Kathy I would tell you Assa Abloy makes an excellent padlock which is nearly pick proof.Although ... | |
| Key only turns the lock half way | 3/3/2010 |
| Q: My front door Schlage lock that have key holes on both sides have worked perfectly for years since I ... A: One of several things is going on, in order of most likely-ness: 1. Door hinges are sagging causing ... | |
| dexter deadbolt removal | 3/2/2010 |
| Q: I have a double cylinder deadbolt on my front door. Decided I would like to change the locks to ... A: Need a photo to be sure, but I imagine its driven into the screw heads to hide them, and keep you ... | |
| Locksmithing | 2/27/2010 |
| Q: How do you install a single cylinder deadbolt lock to a hollow metal door and frame? And also, what ... A: Answer to question #1: (These instructions are based on the assumption you have already figured out ... | |
| A Misplaced BEST cart key | 2/25/2010 |
| Q: We have a cart in storage and wanting to put it back in use. However,we cannot find the security ... A: John, all I saw was the extension for the phone number; no number or email address. Do you need the ... | |
| Unusual key replacement problem | 2/24/2010 |
| Q: I am a member of the US Air Force and have recently arrived at Lajes Field, a small air base in the ... A: The key blanks should be available from any locksmith supply house over the internet. I think Blue ... | |
| rekeying | 2/23/2010 |
| Q: Is it possible to rekey a Kwikset lock from a KW1 key so that it accepts a KW10 key? A: Yes- the only difference between the two key blanks is a KW10 is a 6 pin blank and a KW1 is a 5 pin ... | |
| learning the trade | 2/23/2010 |
| Q: Simply put can you recomend dvd or books on locksmithing? Just starting out. Thanks Peter A: Bill Phillips wrote several books on Locksmithing-check Amazon.com, as they have several very good ... | |
| trying to find old door knob | 2/22/2010 |
| Q: I purchased a home last year that was built in 1979. The back patio door had a lever-handled door ... A: LORI lock also known as ILCO has a 2" backset on its deadbolts and some companies offer a 2" backset ... | |
| blank cover plate for exsiting hole | 2/22/2010 |
| Q: i have searching for a cover plate for a existing hole in my door and can not find them in the ... A: MAG Security makes one for up to 2 1/8" in diameter part number 8836-PCB Here is the link so you ... | |
| CorKey | 2/20/2010 |
| Q: I am trying to find out which Schlage, Kwickset, or other readily available locking hand sets can be ... A: I found a referance to this in a book by Bill Phillips called "Locksmithing"-ISBN#0-07-134436-5. ... | |
| A3, and A4 | 2/20/2010 |
| Q: What are the depth and spaces for the " A3 and A4" systems? A: Ken if you are in fact a locksmith, you can obtain this information by calling Stanley, assuming you ... | |
| Handle lock cylinder removal | 2/18/2010 |
| Q: Is there a way to remove the cylinder from a handle such as you would find on a wall locker or truck ... A: There is probably a removal key just for this purpose, IF in fact it is re-keyable. Try a thin piece ... | |
| Jammed 5 drawer lateral filing cabinet HELP ME PLEASE | 2/13/2010 |
| Q: I have a 5 drawer lateral filing cabinet for which 4 of the 5 drawers must be closed for the 5th ... A: If one side is tight, more than likely the track is bent that the drawer slides on. Depending on ... | |
| broken door lock | 2/11/2010 |
| Q: I have a lock on a glass door (outside our main door) that is broken and the door is locked. The ... A: You must remove any and all screws visible to you- then I would say take a light and look on the ... | |
| Papaiz locks | 2/6/2010 |
| Q: I have 3 storm doors,with a different key for each door. i want them rekeyed to 1 key. Can these be ... A: As far as I know they are; some PADO profile cylinders are not, however. If you remove one, you ... | |
| Papaiz locks | 2/5/2010 |
| Q: I have 3 storm doors,with a different key for each door. i want them rekeyed to 1 key. Can these be ... A: As long as one key out of the three fits ALL the cylinders; as long as at least one key goes into ... | |
| Schlage Deadbolt | 2/3/2010 |
| Q: However, if you turn it all the way in the lock position, you hear a click. When this happens you ... A: I would say yes, one way or another-is there a pin or something on the inside near the thumbturn? ... | |
| Diebold Vault Door | 2/2/2010 |
| Q: I have a Diebold vault door that is installed in the basement of an old Savings and Loan building ... A: A few larger locksmith companies will move safes, and I suggest you contact someone in your area for ... | |
| Stuck Latch Assemble | 2/1/2010 |
| Q: My door latch is stuck. I have taken the assembly with the chasis and spindle off. Unfortunately I ... A: Ok you have 3 holes, right? The center hole where the lock spindle goes into the latch has two ... | |
| Donnell Safe Co. | 1/31/2010 |
| Q: I just acquired a 26 drawer Safety deposit box unit with a gold Donnell Safe Co Chicago logo on ... A: I would suggest you contact someone in your area to give you an appraisal as far as the value; Try ... | |
| deadbolt | 1/29/2010 |
| Q: i have a single cylinder kwikset deadbolt with a thumb turn on the inside im trying to tighten the ... A: Most Kwikset single cylinder deadbolts have two screws on the inside by the thumbturn; there is a ... | |
| Keyhole stuck | 1/28/2010 |
| Q: We moved into a new house and installed a new front door lock (with deadbolt). It worked fine for ... A: In this winter weather,especially in Canada you probably are having problems with moisture getting ... | |
| Ball bearings in a Dexter lock | 1/27/2010 |
| Q: I recently bought an investment house and decided to attempt rekeying the locks myself. That worked ... A: To my knowledge, these serve no other purpose than insuring the key is inserted smoothly, at least ... | |
| Locked out of my house - as a key was left in the lock on the inside | 1/27/2010 |
| Q: This morning, my partner opened the front door with her key and waited for me outside. I shut to ... A: I have had this happen on glass storefront doors, when the thumbturn inside is cocked to one side. I ... | |
| Narrow Stile, Single french door. | 1/26/2010 |
| Q: I have a single French style timber door that i was lucky enough to find for my cottage restoration ... A: Looks like the Marks will cover what you have,are you installing this yourself? And if so, have you ... | |
| kwikset top pins lockup on master keying | 1/25/2010 |
| Q: I've noticed larger secondary holes next to the pin holes on kwikset knob plugs. when trying to ... A: Is this a standard Kwikset knob, made by Kwikset? I have never had this problem or experienced any ... | |
| Exterior passage lock removal | 1/17/2010 |
| Q: I have an exterior passageway lock (vintage 1900)with a cylinder and handle with thumb lever on the ... A: Is there a possibility the spindle is split vertically instead of horizontally? Split length wise ... | |
| How do I remove Yale 356G door handle assy | 1/16/2010 |
| Q: I need to remove and repair a Yale 356G single point door handle assembly but i cant find any info ... A: If its a privacy or passage leverset,there should be a set screw on the inside lever handle.Remove ... | |
| How to open a 1934 Mosler Safe "Hamilton Ohio) | 1/15/2010 |
| Q: A friend of mine was giving a house that was either his great grant parents or grandparents and he ... A: You probably cannot open it even with a drill-most safes have special drill points in order to ... | |
| deadbolt | 1/14/2010 |
| Q: I have a deadbolt that won't unlock. Is it the "throw" that is the metal part that moves back and ... A: That part is the "bolt", the part that is stuck. You can try using a screwdriver to pull back the ... | |
| house door jammed - will not open | 1/11/2010 |
| Q: ok- I am going crazy my front (thank God not only) door will not open from front or back of door- ... A: Well, I suppose it may be time to call a locksmith; one more thing you can try is moving the ... | |
| Schlage BA-360 dead bolt single cylinder | 1/10/2010 |
| Q: This deadbolt was installed 5 months ago. It got very stiff in its operation, and now won't turn at ... A: There are probably screw caps in place-try using the edge of a knife where there should be screws on ... | |
| Door lock and passage sets | 1/6/2010 |
| Q: In the church that I attend, I would like to move a lock from one door to another door that has a ... A: The ring with the hole is where the retainer is; push it in with a paperclip or ice pick and pull on ... | |
| Kwikset lock / deadbolt | 1/4/2010 |
| Q: This will sound somewhat dumb, I am sure. Here's theI know none of the "residential" grade locks ... A: Actually, the Smart Key is not that bad considering Kwikset claims they've upgraded the newer ones ... | |
| career advice. | 1/3/2010 |
| Q: I am a 32 year old woman who is working to become a locksmith and own my own lock company. I am ... A: What have you tried and learned so far? I started at 32 as an apprentice, and am 41 now. I know what ... | |
| Deadlatch mechanism is jammed | 1/2/2010 |
| Q: I have a security door that is jammed in the locked position. The handle will no longer turn when ... A: No problem; try the following ideas, and if they do not work, email me a photo,and I can better ... | |
| 93 ford truck f-150 door lock | 1/1/2010 |
| Q: i am a novice locksmith in nc. I have the door lock assembly off the door and i am trying ... A: I no longer mess with auto locks, and my knowledge on this subject is very limited. But if it is an ... | |
| Schlage handle set hard to open | 12/30/2009 |
| Q: We have a new Schlage handle set and the push button on the handle outside is very hard to push down ... A: There is bind on the latch;the pitcher handle outside(with the thumb piece)feeds into the latch on ... | |
| Ideal Security Lock & Handle | 12/26/2009 |
| Q: I have 2 doors that have Ideal Security locks and handles. The one handle is very loose. I can't see ... A: Could you send a photo? I am not familiar with Ideal, and it may be it is not a common lock in my ... | |
| Very difficult to turn lock | 12/17/2009 |
| Q: The lock on my truck shell rear door has been very difficult to turn--in both directions--for a ... A: Very good- when you are ready to do that replacement, buy a rivet gun and rivets. It's very easy to ... | |
| Very difficult to turn lock | 12/15/2009 |
| Q: The lock on my truck shell rear door has been very difficult to turn--in both directions--for a ... A: Well, possibly-the graphite will be a mess to clean out, but try a silicone based spray. Superlube ... | |
| door lock prevents shutting door without turning knob | 12/13/2009 |
| Q: We have two doors master keyed. They have simple standard cylinder locks (unknown brand)and had been ... A: Take off the door knob and replace the latch-part that goes in the door frame and is becoming ... | |
| titan lockset | 12/12/2009 |
| Q: how do you change a tital lockset from right hand to left hand ? I took a set to Lowes and their ... A: Titan is not handed-you can insert the latch in either direction and the knob cylinder may be upside ... | |
| Yale double cylinder lock problem | 12/11/2009 |
| Q: I live in a house circa 1955, and have Yale Cylinder locks for the deadbolt that require a key on ... A: Yes, two sets of tumblers is present in each and every double cylinder lock. You either have a round ... | |
| 6" thick cutom door | 12/6/2009 |
| Q: I am planning on building a custom super insulated door. Once completed it will be very thick, six ... A: You will need an extra long tail piece for any deadbolt installed, and extra long knob screws for ... | |
| old combination wall safe won't open | 12/5/2009 |
| Q: we have a 30 year old wall safe with a Lori 4 digit combination lock that we can't open anymore. The ... A: Try dialing a half mark before for each number; i.e. If your combination is 6-4-5-3. you would dial ... | |
| Re-key a Weiser Bolt lock | 12/4/2009 |
| Q: Is there a different approach to getting into a Weiserbolt lock than a regular Weiser entrance lock? ... A: I would not think so; unless it is a weiser powerbolt, a lori lock with weiser mortise cylinders, or ... | |
| lost key | 12/3/2009 |
| Q: We installed a keyed lock on a inside closet door to secure items from our children many years ago. ... A: What kind of lock is it? Doorknob, deadbolt; what is the outside look like? Does it use an actual ... | |
| missing safe handle | 12/2/2009 |
| Q: My employer would like to know what is the best way to find a replacement handle for a very old ... A: I suggest you call a safe technician with SAVTA or ALOA certifications-in other words you need ... | |
| diebold walk in safe | 12/1/2009 |
| Q: I would like to change my combination. How do I do it A: There are three reasons I do not recommend you do this yourself: A: Not enough information- you ... | |
| Auto Door Problem 1997 Nissan | 11/29/2009 |
| Q: I have a 1997 Nissan Pathfinder where neither rear down can be opened from the inside or outside. on ... A: First-do any of the passenger doors open from outside but NOT on the inside? If so, check the door ... | |
| double key deadbolt lock with no screws | 11/28/2009 |
| Q: How do I remove a Schlage double key deadbolt lock that has no visible screws? A: Inside the door, take a sharp edge knife and carefully try to pry up the outer edge of the lock ... | |
| Picking up electronis code from Schlage be365 | 11/24/2009 |
| Q: People can pick up a car's Rf code w/ special electronic equitment & use it to gain entry when you ... A: I suppose anything is possible-not knowing much about your lock, I suggest (again) you contact ... | |
| Door locked from outside | 11/20/2009 |
| Q: I have a bathroom door knob which got locked from the outside. It does not have the hole in the ... A: I had one of these about a month ago on an exterior door and here's what I did; take a credit ... | |
| schlage vs baldwin keys | 11/11/2009 |
| Q: How can I tell if a Schlage key will fit a Baldwin key? ANSWER: If the two key blanks insert into ... A: Actually Access is a Walmart product. But-if, as I said before,the tip you insert into the lock,or ... | |
| Removing a Schlage entry handle lock | 11/6/2009 |
| Q: I have a newer Schlage lock for the entry door. This is a handle lock set that has a separate handle ... A: I say paint may be holding it on; try a wooden block pressed up against the outside of the lock,and ... | |
| Emtek/Schlage Keyways | 11/3/2009 |
| Q: At my vacation home I have Emtek locksets and deadbolts which seem to have a Schlage compatible ... A: As far as I know,Emtek is obsolete;no longer made. Schlage is everywhere,however. Most do it your ... | |
| Segal Deadbolt Not Locking from Inside | 10/26/2009 |
| Q: My roommate and I had a Segal deadbolt installed a few months ago, and in the past few days it has ... A: There are two tabs inside the case of this lock on the thumbturn or inside portion of the lock-these ... | |
| Cracking my own safe. | 10/16/2009 |
| Q: I posted this question to another locksmith and quickly got a response stating they had no answer. ... A: I am not a safe technician,only a locksmith. But I will tell you, you will need to contact a safe ... | |
| Depth keys for chicago round keys 1137s | 10/7/2009 |
| Q: i am in montreal and no one of my furnisher are capable to do come this.they tell me only in usa or ... A: E-Bay.com is selling these. This email address is for contact information for the particular seller ... | |
| mechanical push button combination door lock | 10/2/2009 |
| Q: I have a 14 digit Acer push button lock on an apartment that I own abroad would it be possible for a ... A: Does your lock have a latch or a bolt? A latch is one you will find on a regular doorknob. A bolt is ... | |
| mechanical push button combination door lock | 9/27/2009 |
| Q: I have a 14 digit Acer push button lock on an apartment that I own abroad would it be possible for a ... A: Depends-I am sure the information on changing the combination is available somewhere-BUT-unless its ... | |
| rekeying knob or handle sets | 9/25/2009 |
| Q: I work at a local hardware and am under the gun to be able to do rekeying proficiently. I'm OK now ... A: Do you actually want to become a locksmith? If so, you can get some training materials on a variety ... | |
| Sentry Safe Problem | 9/21/2009 |
| Q: I have a small Sentry safe Model #SO407 that I have had for 11 years. I use the lock and the ... A: Unfortunately, no. The barrel most likely will either have to be re-keyed to your key or replaced. I ... | |
| DOOR LATCH STUCK CLOSED | 9/16/2009 |
| Q: My back door is stuck shut with the knob not releasing the latch. i have removed the knob and tried ... A: Try a combination of things-one is use a flat blade screwdriver in the center of the latch where the ... | |
| TESA lock | 9/16/2009 |
| Q: I am currently living in Spain, and just purchased a TESA cylinder lock (brass, completely ... A: http://www.tesa.es/PDF/EXPORTACION/TESA%20access%20knobsets.pdf Is about all the instructions I ... | |
| ERA multi lock jammed | 9/15/2009 |
| Q: We have an ERA multi lock on our bi fold kitchen doors. Only yesterday I couldn't open the door the ... A: ERA multi lock?? Never heard of that brand.I found it on the internet, and it seems like a European ... | |
| removing brass plate on schlage deadbolt | 9/14/2009 |
| Q: I'm trying to install a new lock and have to remove the previous schlage lock. It's got a key both ... A: Do you see two small "caps" or round covers on the inside part of the deadbolt? These cover the ... | |
| Mosler safe | 9/14/2009 |
| Q: There is no tag on the outside of the safe but the model and serial numbers are as follows. Model ... A: I pulled the following information from a website: http://www.thesafesource.com/safe_ratings.htm. ... | |
| latch sticking | 9/11/2009 |
| Q: I purchased a Schlage exterior doorset which has a handle and thumb latch on the outside and a knob ... A: Try adjusting the strike on the door-and I have to tell you the spring cage is not strong enough to ... | |
| Dexter entry lock | 9/8/2009 |
| Q: I recently bought a home with a dexter entry door lock. the lock did not come with a key. How do I ... A: This because there is a rose on the inside of the door knob. Turn the door knob on the inside slowly ... | |
| set screw into cylnder | 9/5/2009 |
| Q: at a school project we are installing "motel" locksets where the outside handle is just a pull and ... A: My only suggestion is if you are using a rim cylinder-a little bit of the tail piece will have to be ... | |
| help with a Mosler safe | 9/4/2009 |
| Q: I have a Mosler safe at our church that needs to be used, Its open, but I don't have the ... A: Since I am just getting into safes,I wouldn't know about the value. Try calling around to several ... | |
| drilling out locks | 9/1/2009 |
| Q: I have evicted a tenant, we will be doing the lock out today, How does one go about drilling out a ... A: Is your lock high security? What brand of lock is it? If it is Kwikset,Schlage,Yale or a knock off ... | |
| Marvin sliding door lock | 8/31/2009 |
| Q: I have glass sliding doors by Marvin leading to my patio. The lock on the door was always touchy, ... A: It is possible to do the repairs yourself if you are able and willing unless it involves removing ... | |
| Victor safe | 8/29/2009 |
| Q: I am cleaning out a storage facility for my step-father who once owned a jewelry business. He has ... A: For Yale Safe lock: 4 times right to the first number, 3 times left to the second number, 2 times ... | |
| kwikset deadbolt /latch. | 8/28/2009 |
| Q: On a typical dead bolt,key 1 side thumb turn on the other.Can i replace the dead bolt with a dead ... A: Although I have never tried this,Kwikset does make a latch for a deadbolt.It is called a gatelatch ... | |
| Defiant Deadbolts | 8/27/2009 |
| Q: In researching a deadbolt purchase, I came across a posting on another website from someone who had ... A: Good for you for doing your research! Most of these locks are about the same..I don't feel Weiser is ... | |
| Hoe to Rekey a Almont Re Key padlock | 8/24/2009 |
| Q: I have two Almont Re-Key padlocks with the key that works the each lock. How do I go about getting ... A: Larry,in 10 years I don't think I have ever had a reason to re-key one of these. However,"James",one ... | |
| Lost key for 85 Toyota Tercel | 8/18/2009 |
| Q: My son lost the key to our 85 Toyota Tercel, and I need some help with finding the most economical ... A: Actually no it isn't costly,but then again unless you have some picks or a key(defeating the ... | |
| door locks/replacement | 8/15/2009 |
| Q: I am trying to change a door knob with a lock in it. I have removed the knob itself, both ... A: This is called a "drive in latch"...take a flat blade screwdriver and insert it into the hole where ... | |
| Lateral file cabinets | 8/14/2009 |
| Q: How do you fix two lateral file cabinets that when you open one draw, the other three draws open at ... A: The file cabinet with the lock-does it have numbers or letters on the face of the lock? If so,you ... | |
| broken handle on garage door. | 8/11/2009 |
| Q: I closed the garage door without knowing the cables that were connected to the handle were broken. ... A: There is a tool I have seen in some locksmith supply books-it goes into the top of the door and ... | |
| Drive In Faceplate | 8/5/2009 |
| Q: I am trying to remove the drive in face plate from a bolt so that I can use the lock on a different ... A: Remove the lock,and take a flat blade screw driver and wedge it inside the hole where the lock was ... | |
| bath/bedroom privacy locks | 8/4/2009 |
| Q: I would like to find the privacy lock style that you push the door knob in and turn the knob to the ... A: Have you tried looking at the edge of the door beside the knob-on the part that sticks out? On the ... | |
| Jammed Door Latch | 8/2/2009 |
| Q: We woke up this morning and discovered that our door knob on the door to the garage would not turn. ... A: Rick-either a small flat blade screw driver inside the u shaped part of the latch (inside the hole ... | |
| Weslock | 7/28/2009 |
| Q: the door knob suddenly froze and would not turn. I took the door hand off and found that the latch ... A: There is a way to open it-first a old credit card or similar device on the edge with the ... | |
| Broken lock in Storage Shed | 7/26/2009 |
| Q: Someone tried to bread into our storage shed and broke the lock. We can not get the key into the ... A: Yes,there is a plate you can buy to cover the latch-or the crack in betwen the door and the ... | |
| marks mortise lock | 7/25/2009 |
| Q: I need some help with a marks mortise lock I just purchased and installed. The lock is installed ... A: By trim I mean the knobs-the knob with the screw holes in the round part beside the knob is the ... | |
| key alike euro cylinders | 7/23/2009 |
| Q: Please can you explain the process of keying alike euro cylinders. Aree this on the same principle ... A: I'm not that familiar with euro cylinders-they are not that common here in the USA,except for Papaiz ... | |
| Opening a curio cabinet w/ skeleton key: | 7/19/2009 |
| Q: Curio cabinet is maybe 20 years old? its one of those types that has the style of 1/2 circle with ... A: All of these cabinets are made differently-I wouldn't know what to tell you in terms of which way to ... | |
| marks mortise lock | 7/16/2009 |
| Q: I need some help with a marks mortise lock I just purchased and installed. The lock is installed ... A: Are the "hubs" on the correct side? The hubs are the square portion that the knobs go inside of.The ... | |
| Schlage vs. Medeco | 7/15/2009 |
| Q: Lynn, I have been reading the literature and reading online about high-security locks. There is a ... A: Actually,I have SEEN Primus picked, the Everest. And I have used,installed and re-keyed ... | |
| marks mortise lock | 7/15/2009 |
| Q: I have an issue with a brand new Marks mortise lock. It seems whenever I lock the deadbolt from ... A: I have this same problem all the time with different mortise locks;and I admit it makes me crazy ... | |
| 1970'S FRONT ENTRACE | 7/14/2009 |
| Q: NEED TUBULAR LATCH...DOUBLE SPRING TYPE WITH THUMB LATCH AND KNOB TYPE...I CAN SEND PICTURES TO SHOW ... A: Sounds like a weiser or kwikset pitcher handle set. Pitcher handle on the outside and knob on the ... | |
| re keying to master key | 7/13/2009 |
| Q: I am interested in re-keying all of my rental house locks & deadbolts(approx 60 sets) to be able to ... A: Yes it is-as long as all the locks accept the KW1 key blank-Kwikset. You will need a box of KW1 ... | |
| Handleset that locks when closed | 7/3/2009 |
| Q: Just moved to a new home with a handleset lock. There is a deadbolt on top and a paddle over the ... A: You mean a pitcher handle? Just press the button down with your thumb and go in? If that is what ... | |
| Locked out of my storage shed | 6/30/2009 |
| Q: I have a standard steel exterior door on my shed.I can unlock the door with the key and then turn ... A: Not true-if what you're explaining is a door much like any interior or exterior door in your home-I ... | |
| Replacing Kwikset deadbolt | 6/29/2009 |
| Q: I am attempting to replace the Kwikset deadbolt on my front door. When I removed the screws on the ... A: Must be that is a Kwikset titan deadbolt. The black screws are "female"-that is they have a female ... | |
| broken lockset | 6/22/2009 |
| Q: A friend has asked for my help removing a lockset from an interior door in her home. The door was ... A: No,not in that case...try shimming the latch (use a credit card or similar item) and wiggle between ... | |
| broken lockset | 6/20/2009 |
| Q: A friend has asked for my help removing a lockset from an interior door in her home. The door was ... A: Drill right above the keyway-where the key goes in-1/8" drill bit,slowly drill through until you ... | |
| Glass in rear auto lock | 6/18/2009 |
| Q: This may be more of an auto question, but I hope you can help. I recently bought a 1997 Subaru ... A: I would say on anything you take apart for the first time,get a digital camera and take photos of ... | |
| Double Cylinder Deadbolt Lock | 6/17/2009 |
| Q: I need to have a double cylinder deadbolt installed. I was told that the locking mechanism in the ... A: There is a lock I installed once in the French Quarter,New Orleans. It was installed on a pair of ... | |
| older dead bolt lock exterior or door surface mounted | 6/16/2009 |
| Q: I would like to find a replacement lock of the same type that is currently on my back door. It is a ... A: Without a photo I cannot tell you what it is either. It is a surface mounted rim lock of some ... | |
| How to remove Medeco deadbolt? | 6/12/2009 |
| Q: My father in-law has a Medeco deadbolt on his front door that is keyed inside and outside. We can't ... A: I will need a photo to help you;try looking at the edge of the door to see if this lock is in fact a ... | |
| broken Yale deadbolt | 6/5/2009 |
| Q: I have a Yale lock that broke. It is a deadbolt with one cylinder, opening with a latch that you ... A: Yes I believe you can replcae it,however the bolt pattern obviously wont be the same. The new ones ... | |
| Old Dexter entry door handle replace or repair | 6/4/2009 |
| Q: I have and old Dexter entry door handle with the separate keyed lock above it on the outside. ... A: Well,I dont think you can buy just the inside knob;so yes you have to replace the entire knob. ... | |
| Baldwin Mortise Lock Case | 5/27/2009 |
| Q: I am a rookie locksmith in Sacramento. I have a customer with a Baldwin Mortise lock in his front ... A: Yes I do believe Baldwin may have some certification classes; most lock manufacturers do;contact ... | |
| filing cabinet lock is not reliable | 5/19/2009 |
| Q: My once-perfectly-locking filing cabinets are no longer reliable since they have been moved. They ... A: I would say the cabinet was tilted and perhaps the middle of the locking bar was bent just enough to ... | |
| Car door lock merc. 1983 | 5/18/2009 |
| Q: I have a mercedes benz 1983 280SE. The key won't unlock the door- neither drivers nor passenger now. ... A: This key is it the original key given to you with purchase of the car? If it not,and is a copy try ... | |
| How to start a automotive lockout business. | 5/15/2009 |
| Q: I want to open a lockout automotive business, I was wondering if somebody can give me information ... A: A good catalog of locksmith equipment will help you decide how much you want to invest in equipment. ... | |
| Lock fell out of the door knob | 5/14/2009 |
| Q: I used a newly created key to verify that it worked in the door lock (not a dead bolt) and the ... A: Maybe-if the springs fell out of the plug (the piece that fell out),then no you cannot repair it. ... | |
| Locksmith training | 4/29/2009 |
| Q: I am 52 yrs young and been laid off 10 times in the last 4 years. I had a good career in ... A: I couldn't catch the email Kathy. My best advice is find a school or similar such job-once you get ... | |
| Key won't make a full rotation | 4/28/2009 |
| Q: I have a storage room that is attached to my garage. I have always kept it unlocked, but used it ... A: The lock is indeed broken-most likely the plug is not rotating due to some microscopic abrasion or ... | |
| french door locks | 4/28/2009 |
| Q: My daughter who just recently was widowed lives in a home with 2 french doors. There are deadbolt ... A: Without a photo,I am not sure I can help, but I will try. Basically, you need to look throughout her ... | |
| Short backset Schlage deadbolt - 1 of 4 | 4/27/2009 |
| Q: I have a Schlage deadbolt, keyed both sides, with what I measure to be a 1-3/4" backset. I'd like ... A: Any locksmith can order this bolt for you;I am not sure but I believe these are no longer made. I ... | |
| Segal dead bolt | 4/27/2009 |
| Q: I changed the cylinder of a Segal deadbolt...it was working fine, then suddenly my key was getting ... A: The silver piece has a hole that fits over a pin on the bolt unit. The spring coils behind the ... | |
| remove trunk lock on 87 Pontiac firebird | 4/24/2009 |
| Q: I lost my trunk key for my 1987 Pontic Firebird and cannot replace it, I tried to get one using ... A: You can try drilling out the lock to open it and popping the trunk with a screwdriver. A locksmith ... | |
| Gate Lock Does Not Engage | 4/23/2009 |
| Q: I live in a townhouse with a shared gate. The lock on the gate is a Schlage, but instead of a bolt ... A: The tailpiece has become disconnected from the latch mechanism.There are screw covers hiding the ... | |
| Locksmith training | 4/23/2009 |
| Q: I am 52 yrs young and been laid off 10 times in the last 4 years. I had a good career in ... A: My answer is YES! I am also a woman and have been doing locksmithing 10 years now. If you can tell ... | |
| Schlage | 4/22/2009 |
| Q: I broke my key off in our deadbolt...so I removed the deadbolt and got that piece out. I put the ... A: Yes you did;the tailpieces that connect to the bolt inside the door must be timed correctly. here's ... | |
| Anderson French Door Lock stuck | 4/15/2009 |
| Q: We have Anderson French doors and (standing on outside, looking at door) the left hand side door ... A: I would say take it off the door and replace it-I had one stuck open(wouldn't lock)once when I ... | |
| Rosette removal | 4/14/2009 |
| Q: I am trying to access the screws hidden behind the rosette of a Kwikset lever entry lockset. I am ... A: Try twisting the rosette clockwise and counterclockwise,while simultaneously prying up the slot with ... | |
| removing door knob installed backwards | 4/13/2009 |
| Q: The door knob to our pantry is stuck. Whoever installed it, did so with the screws inside the ... A: I'm not sure what to tell you-the screws must be removed from inside the door,so that means getting ... | |
| schlage lock | 4/5/2009 |
| Q: i have a schalge deadbolt that is connected to a buzzer system. I am trying to replace it because ... A: You can replace it with a doorknob-however,the bore or hole on the original lock is probably smaller ... | |
| YALE MORTISE LOCK | 3/29/2009 |
| Q: I HAVE AN OLD YALE MORTISE LOCKSET. INSIDE ARE THE NUMBERS 2 1/2 BS 7428P. IT HAS A KNOB FOR INSIDE ... A: http://www.assaabloydss.com/library/partsmanuals/Yale/pdf/42192.pdf Page 39 of this PDF shows the ... | |
| removal of 87 Ford Ranger ignition switch | 3/22/2009 |
| Q: I am a licensed locksmith with 12+ years in commecial locksmithing but I am basically new to ... A: If you have the key-there may be a poke hole underneath the column. Get a flashlight and look for ... | |
| can't open a deadlatch door lock | 3/11/2009 |
| Q: I bought a new door lock, please see the spcification of the lock at ... A: Really,no he should not have to trim the tailpiece like a knife edge. But,the tailpiece may be too ... | |
| Kwikset Doorknobs | 3/5/2009 |
| Q: I used to have schlage entry knobs that could be turned to open from the inside without "unlocking" ... A: Ok, you have the Kwikset Tylo style or similar knobset. Again no, you can't modify these locks. You ... | |
| Door latch | 3/3/2009 |
| Q: I have a Schlage door knob on my back door. For the last few days, it has been cool and windy. When ... A: Is this the only time you have had this problem;has it happened before when it has been raining or ... | |
| Manual door lock sticks in Toyota Echo | 2/26/2009 |
| Q: I have a 2000 Toyota Echo with manual key door locks (no power or remote). For about 6 months my ... A: Does this key operate all the other locks fine? If so,then the door lock may have some trash in ... | |
| How to master key | 2/25/2009 |
| Q: I am a locksmith and I have a customer who has 3 mortise locks he wants re keyed to one key.I can do ... A: There are books on decoding master keys.I know of no simple formula. Decode the existing operating ... | |
| dexter pantry door knob | 2/22/2009 |
| Q: We removed the door knob to be replace it...could not find a replacement that fit. Now we are ... A: Replace the lock! Any Home Depot or Lowes will have a replacement. Kwikset usually works fine for ... | |
| Schlage master key set | 2/17/2009 |
| Q: Our church has master keyed locks with I think 2 individual keys for each lock as well. Over the ... A: If you have a knowledge of master keying,then you can I believe get a pre-cut set from Foley ... | |
| 2.75 THICK DOOR LOCK SET | 2/15/2009 |
| Q: WE NEED A LOCK SET FOR A 2.75 THICK BEDROOM DOOR WE WANT IT TO HAVE A KEY . THE FINISH DOESN'T ... A: Your local home center probably has what you need. Check the package for application information but ... | |
| Baldwin lock turns, won't retract bolt | 2/12/2009 |
| Q: I'm trying to get a stuck door open for my friend. The lock is a Baldwin handleset, looks most like ... A: The hole on the top of the photo;the one with the plate removed is going to be the thumb turn hole. ... | |
| saga safe | 2/6/2009 |
| Q: have the #'s - do not remember the sequence of turns to open it. my arthritic fingers are so weary ... A: I am just learning about safes and have limited information for you,but I will try to help you. ... | |
| residential entry and dead bolt locks | 2/5/2009 |
| Q: For residential use, which brands (and perhaps models) of entry locks and deadbolts are superior ... A: It depends on personal taste,but I can make a few recommendations. Lori lock company (now ... | |
| dead bolts dying | 2/5/2009 |
| Q: A week ago my old surface-mounted deadbolt died (it had been hanging up for a long time before that) ... A: Those types of locks are very tedious; you have to be exactly on the mark with everything or it will ... | |
| Welch deadbolt | 2/5/2009 |
| Q: I have a 50's era Welch deadbolt. The key will throw the deadbolt closed (extended), but when I ... A: There is something wrong with the "timing" of the tailpiece. The tailpiece is located on the ... | |
| barn door sliding hw | 2/3/2009 |
| Q: I want to place an interior privacy lock on a solid wood door running on barn door track - upscale, ... A: Send me a photo of the door,inside and out and where it would be latching into the frame if you can. ... | |
| deadbolt question | 2/3/2009 |
| Q: Is a single cylinder deadbolt less secure than a double cylinder deadbolt? Is the double somehow ... A: Actually unless used on a door with alot of glass,it can in fact be a fire hazard. I don't recommend ... | |
| Baldwin front door handle | 2/3/2009 |
| Q: First, thank you for your time in answering my question. Our front door handle just stopped working ... A: Sure,I don't see why not- any handy man could look inside the handle and see if the spring is ... | |
| stuck slider | 2/2/2009 |
| Q: The mortise latch on my sliding glass door won't unlatch, and the door is locked shut. I have taken ... A: The only was is going to be what ever is underneath the thumb turn from the inside. Under the ... | |
| replacement key | 1/30/2009 |
| Q: my car key is ready to snap and i nedd to get a new one cut. when i went to ask about this i got ... A: I doubt you need a code: what kind of vehicle is it? Any locksmith worth his salt can make a key ... | |
| Lock stuck in door | 1/30/2009 |
| Q: With the weather in Cleveland these days it's been single digits, so the lock has been progressively ... A: There are some flat head "female screws" on the inside-this is what you will remove next.Take a ... | |
| Schlage lock | 1/29/2009 |
| Q: On my front door it has a Schlage lock, the lock will only lock or unlock with a key. The inside ... A: You most likely have a double cylinder deadbolt of some kind. The inside knob,unless you have a ... | |
| where can i get a replacement key for privacy locks | 1/24/2009 |
| Q: well my baby sitter just lost my last key to my privacy locks in my home. I have a 3 year old and an ... A: This type of lock is known as a privacy lock.Contact a locksmith in your area. He or she will need ... | |
| How to disassemble a Schlage dead bolt | 1/24/2009 |
| Q: I have a dead bolt on my front door that has to be opened with a key from both inside and out. ... A: There should be some round holes on the inside of the door close to where you insert the key.They ... | |
| 3" thick door | 1/23/2009 |
| Q: I would like to install a double cylinder deadbolt on a door that is 3" thick. I have a Schlage ... A: There is a kit you can buy: this only works for doors that are 2 to 2 1/2 inches thick.It is called ... | |
| trunk lock | 1/23/2009 |
| Q: i just bought a used 2000 ford taurus. the key wouldn't go into the trunk lock, looking into the ... A: I would dissemble the lock,or try a broken key extractor to pull the remaining piece out. It should ... | |
| Control keys | 1/23/2009 |
| Q: I am a maintenance tech. working at an apt complex. Ire-key locks, and able to pick them, but I was ... A: I would need a bit more information to answer your question. The "control" key";is it the key you ... | |
| Auto Locks | 1/22/2009 |
| Q: I'm just getting into locksmithing. As far as the auto lock side of it I'm totally confused. I ... A: There is a book called Fast Facts updated every year,and another called Auto Smart also updated ... | |
Locksmithing
Answers by Expert:
Lynn Chambers
Top Expert on this page
Expertise
Any and all questions about general locksmithing. NO SAFE QUESTIONS PLEASE. Commercial and residential hardware experience of 10 years. I cannot answer questions about picking or bumping locks for obvious reasons of security. I do not work on safes,safe deposit boxes or vaults or newer automobiles. Older auto lock questions I can answer.PLEASE if you have a question,be very specific. Give me as much information as you can on your particular problem;include a photo if possible.The more information I have the better I can help you.Do not expect that I just "know" what you are talking about; give as much information as possible,as there is literally thousand of locks on the market. Please include a brand mane if possible. If what I tell you does not make sense, or you cannot figure out what to do, call a Licensed Locksmith.
Experience
Ten years as a locksmith in commercial,residential,institional,auto locks and master-keying systems. Experienced in Interchangeable cores and Medeco locks.Currently working as an Institutional Locksmith,and owner of After 6 Locksmith,LLC.
Organizations
Louisiana-Mississippi Locksmith Association.
Publications
http://www.after6locksmith.com
Education/Credentials
Foley-Belsaw,and 2 years of apprentice level training.Certified,registered locksmith,licensed,bonded,insured.
Past/Present Clients
Serving the Baton Rouge,New Orleans and Hammond Louisiana areas
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