| Subject | Date Asked |
|
| Titan lock on security door | 11/22/2009 |
Q: about 5 years ago I purchased a security door. It was installed by a contractor with a Titan lock. ...
A: Hire a locksmith to look at it and install a replacement, or take the old one to a lock shop. I'm ...
|
| Corbin Lockset Repair Parts | 11/22/2009 |
Q: I am working on an old house and making repairs to the doors. I need to find a repair part for a ...
A: There are many types of locks on the market. The best option would be for you to remove your lock ...
|
| Corbin Lockset Repair Parts | 11/22/2009 |
Q: I am working on an old house and making repairs to the doors. I need to find a repair part for a ...
A: It's unlikely you can find that part. A local locksmith, one that's been in business a while, may ...
|
| Opening Anderson Door from Inside | 11/19/2009 |
Q: We got new Anderson doors. We use the right side panel to go out and come in and the technicians ...
A: Can you attach a photo to this question showing the left door edge, the one that faces the right ...
|
| Right-hand vs Left-hand open on Lever Handle | 11/18/2009 |
Q: I bought a lever handle for a right-hand open and it should have been for a left-hand open. I ...
A: If you can't push down on the levers to open the door then I'd doubt you can reverse it. Depending ...
|
| corroding lock handles | 11/16/2009 |
Q: I have more than 20 twentytwo years old Weiser indoor locks. Living close to the seashore the bright ...
A: To the best of my knowledge that is not possible. I'd suggest purchasing replacement locks that ...
|
| my past | 11/15/2009 |
Q: i just came across this web page because i was looking for information on locksmithing and its ...
A: You cannot get a locksmith license from anywhere if you have had any felony convictions. You ...
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| kwikset deadbolt | 11/14/2009 |
Q: We had a Kwikset deadbolt on back door. It worked fine from the outside, but inside when you put the ...
A: Make sure the tailpieces are installed correctly and that the clip holding them onto the lock ...
|
| FIC key | 11/11/2009 |
Q: my friend lost his camping trailer key. I'm assuming it's an FIC key like my camping trailer. On one ...
A: Try this site: http://www.mysecuritypro.com/ficlocksprecutfickeys.aspx (I'm not recommending any ...
|
| FIC key | 11/11/2009 |
Q: my friend lost his camping trailer key. I'm assuming it's an FIC key like my camping trailer. On one ...
A: Take the code from the lock to a locksmith shop that has the right key and they can make a key from ...
|
| follow up on keyless schlage install | 11/10/2009 |
Q: ...hello..thanks for your quick reply....am including a photo of the existing entry lock....looks ...
A: Yes you do have a mortise lock. There are a few manufacturers that make something that should fit. ...
|
| replacing exterior door lockset with keyless unit | 11/10/2009 |
Q: ...i have purchased a keyless door lock schlage fe595 (no deadbolt) to replace a exterior entry unit ...
A: Which part is taller, where the lock was in the door or where the strike plate was in the jamb? ...
|
| Schlage | 11/9/2009 |
Q: I have a schlage double locking knob handelset. That is between two businesses. We would like to ...
A: You could have several types of knob models which can be removed differently. For one model: Insert ...
|
| Broken deadbolt | 11/8/2009 |
Q: I have a Schlage deadbolt that just broke this evening. The key spins in the lock, but the deadbolt ...
A: It's rare for a Schlage to do that so it's hard to know what the problem could be. A locksmith ...
|
| need to remove an exterior lock set | 11/7/2009 |
Q: I am very handy, have been doing my own work for decades. New condo - entry lockset is causing ...
A: Call locksmiths in your area to see if anyone has a spare or one you could borrow. I've used a ...
|
| need to remove an exterior lock set | 11/7/2009 |
Q: I am very handy, have been doing my own work for decades. New condo - entry lockset is causing ...
A: In the photo there is the thumbturn piece. Behind that is where the knob slides onto. Behind that ...
|
| Bally Pinball Machine | 11/3/2009 |
Q: I have a 1975 approximate age Bally pinball machine that the key is lost for. Is there any type of ...
A: You'll want to hire a locksmith to either pick it or in some way open it. They can then either ...
|
| ideal security lock | 10/31/2009 |
Q: I have an Ideal Security lock on my front door. I tried to have it replaced a few years ago but my ...
A: To remove a double cylinder lock of this brand, turn the key on the inside to expose the small slot ...
|
| Lost key - Master | 10/30/2009 |
Q: I recently lost one set of my keys ( Schlage lock ) to the apartment. I now have two options, either ...
A: The landlord uses a master key to access their rental properties. If you buy a new lock you'll have ...
|
| front door deadbolt lock spins, sometimes, before engaging | 10/29/2009 |
Q: Our front door deadbolt lock (brand unknown) has started not to engage when we put the key in; we ...
A: You'll have to remove the lock from the door to determine the problem. Without knowing the brand or ...
|
| lock box with audit trail | 10/27/2009 |
Q: I need a lock box with an audit trail to hold 10-15 keys. We need to know who accesses the keys ...
A: CompX Security Products makes a keypad lock for cabinets that has an audit capability. You also ...
|
| Best Cores | 10/21/2009 |
Q: I'm guessing these will be quick answers, but I can't find a clear answer. I have two Best SFIC ...
A: Since for the most part IC systems are used in commercial applications, 2-3/8" isn't the standard ...
|
| locksmithy | 10/21/2009 |
Q: I tried detaching face plate from deadbolt latch of a "Defiant" Keyed Entry door lock, as per ...
A: The best option is to repack the lock into its packaging and either throw it away or return it. ...
|
| Best Cores | 10/21/2009 |
Q: I'm guessing these will be quick answers, but I can't find a clear answer. I have two Best SFIC ...
A: It's probably better to stick with the keyway you already use instead of changing. Some keyways are ...
|
| Jammed lock | 10/19/2009 |
Q: Where I work somebody keeps putting staples in locks so the key won't go all of the way in. So we ...
A: Since locks are made of brass, any strong magnet should be able to pull a paperclip out unless it's ...
|
| Cannot find screws to remove lockset | 10/18/2009 |
Q: I have a deadbolt and lockset I am trying to replace. There are no screws on either to remove- the ...
A: If your deadbolt has a removable plate around the bolt: 1. Remove the faceplate from the edge of the ...
|
| Key machine | 10/17/2009 |
Q: I am new to the industry and planning on purchasing my first key duplicator. I am stuck on a rytan ...
A: Since you're new you should know it's Kwikset, not qwikset. I've not used Rytan machines but I know ...
|
| Added Condo Security | 10/14/2009 |
Q: I am caught in difficult situation. I live in a condo and the builder is entering my unit without ...
A: Check your lease. If it states that you must have a lock that uses a master key so the manager or ...
|
| Schlage deadbolt stuck | 10/13/2009 |
Q: I have a 5 year old Schlage lock on my door that leads from the garage into the home. It has key ...
A: I'm confused. You say it's a deadbolt but then say the doorknob will only turn... Is this a ...
|
| Education, Power inverter | 10/13/2009 |
Q: James- I have 2 questions 1. I’m currently taking basic Locksmithing with Foley-Belsaw and should ...
A: Foley has a Masterkeying course and I think an Advanced Locksmithing one too. I'm not aware of any ...
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| How to unlock a HON cabinet without a key | 10/12/2009 |
Q: How would I unlock a HON file cabinet without the key. The key was stolen and I want to unlock it. ...
A: The face of the lock should have some numbers and letters on it, or just numbers. Call a locksmith ...
|
| Stuck Keys | 10/12/2009 |
Q: Good afternoon James. I recently purchased an older home. On one of the exterior doors there is a ...
A: I thought they might be metal. They will come out but it will take a lot of time and the right tool ...
|
| Stuck Keys | 10/10/2009 |
Q: Good afternoon James. I recently purchased an older home. On one of the exterior doors there is a ...
A: Make sure the key is vertical before pulling it out and you may have to push in on the part of the ...
|
| Corbin entry lock | 10/9/2009 |
Q: Our old Corbin door lock (house built around 1930) needs repair. I can get the cylinder and knob ...
A: It looks like the spindle may be in two parts. There may be a small wire holding the two pieces ...
|
| Removing lock set to repaint door. | 10/7/2009 |
Q: I have a front entry door with a lockset made in the early 1940's. I have had it off years ago to ...
A: Remove the faceplate from the door edge, if there is one. Inside there should be one or two screws ...
|
| Corbin entry lock | 10/7/2009 |
Q: Our old Corbin door lock (house built around 1930) needs repair. I can get the cylinder and knob ...
A: The spindle needs to be turned so the two pieces line up and can fit through the square hole in the ...
|
| patio door hinges | 10/3/2009 |
Q: We are installing patio doors in our bedroom that open out. We are concerned about the hinges being ...
A: There are two kinds of hinges that can be used where the knuckles will be exposed to the outside - ...
|
| Weiser Lock kbobset | 10/1/2009 |
Q: and thank you for the info on this site about removing the key cylinder from a weiser door knob lock ...
A: Insert the working key and turn it. Place a probe tool into the small hole on the side of the thin ...
|
| How to mortise and electric strike on a solid core door | 9/30/2009 |
Q: Ok, I am installing Adams Rite electric strikes on a few of my doors to expand our access control ...
A: Just so we're clear, electric strikes are installed on the jamb unless the door is part of a set of ...
|
| Stiff door lock | 9/25/2009 |
Q: All of a sudden I noticed my Schlage deadbolt key no longer slides easily into the keyway. It isn't ...
A: Take a good look at your key. If it's bent even slightly it can be hard to insert into the key ...
|
| ATRIUM Door Mounting Bolts | 9/23/2009 |
Q: I have Atrium brand french doors cira 1980. One door is stationary and the real door swings from the ...
A: A locksmith may have the tool you need. You'll have to call around to find one that does. If not, ...
|
| surface mount deadbolt removal | 9/22/2009 |
Q: I am trying to remove a surface mount deadbolt. It has Medeco on the lock itself and is keyed on ...
A: Keep turning the key. The metal piece should move so that a hole appears which is covering the ...
|
| Kwikset Latch Does Not Disengage | 9/21/2009 |
Q: I am replacing the door handles and locks on an exterior door with Kwikset Smart Key signature ...
A: Make sure the lock isn't overtightened. This can cause the issue you have. If this isn't the ...
|
| Marks mortise Cylinder | 9/21/2009 |
Q: I have a Marks lock . The style name is The New Yorker. The cylinder does not work any more. I ...
A: Measure the length of the cylinder from the back of the front to the back of the cam. After you ...
|
| Welch 502C | 9/20/2009 |
Q: I have an old Welch lock and have not found a way to remove the inside knob. There is only a small ...
A: Again I'm at a loss. I don't know anything about that brand and wouldn't be able to provide further ...
|
| Best Padlock Question | 9/20/2009 |
Q: I haved a small (possibly a 11 series) older style Best Padlock without the core. Using my control ...
A: First off, Best locks can only accept Best style cores. This is small format IC, or SFIC. There ...
|
| Dexter lock quality | 9/19/2009 |
Q: I'm replacing several deadbolts. I want the best quality I can have within my moderate price range. ...
A: I agree completely with locksmith B. Kwikset makes a better lock than Dexter ever has or likely ...
|
| change lock glass/aluminum door | 9/16/2009 |
Q: James, How do I change locks in a glass door with an aluminum frame? this is the front door to a ...
A: Open the door. On the door edge should be a plate with 2 screws. The plate should be flush with the ...
|
| Reinforcing plate for deadbolt in foam core door | 9/15/2009 |
Q: I upgraded from grade 3 Kwikset to a grade 2 Schlage deadbolt. This is being installed in a steel ...
A: Schlage makes a reinforcement piece that goes between the door faces, part number A501-566 (for ...
|
| change lock on file cabinet | 9/12/2009 |
Q: I have a file cabinet, it's open, but the key is lost, how can i change the lock?
A: Depending on the manufacturer and the type of lock there should be a clip holding the current lock ...
|
| Locksets | 9/8/2009 |
Q: I am looking for good secure locks, restricted keyways are not a worry. I am trying to decide ...
A: I know nothing about Cal-Royal so I can't comment on their products. Almost any mortise lock will ...
|
| Installing a lock on side of nightstand | 9/8/2009 |
Q: I purchased a nightstand with two drawers that do not lock. I would like to add a lock to each ...
A: If the gap between the drawer and the side of the cabinet is small, you might be able to get a lock ...
|
| 3 point locking system on Peachtree Citadel door | 9/3/2009 |
Q: I have the same problem as another person who wrote to you about a broken Peachtree door with a 3 ...
A: Due to the mortising that is needed for most 3 point locks, a standard lock won't be able to ...
|
| Baldwin bathroom lockset broken spindle? | 9/2/2009 |
Q: I am pretty good about figuring out how to fix things, but with this Baldwin lockset to our bathroom ...
A: You should be able to get a credit card or something like a cake icing spreader between the door and ...
|
| Old Dexter Backset | 8/31/2009 |
Q: I have recently moved into a home that has a wooden entry door with a Dexter lock set. The door ...
A: Your aren't going to find a replacement latch assembly. You can try contacting locksmiths in your ...
|
| basic schlage door knob assembly | 8/30/2009 |
Q: I have a basic Schlage door knob i bought from Lowe's a few years ago. It is a lock a key set and ...
A: Take the latch assembly to a locksmith and get a replacement one. It's not likely the one you have ...
|
| Need to find name brand for code lock entry | 8/29/2009 |
Q: I have moved to a new home. The previous owners purchased a code lock deadbolt that has a key entry ...
A: Most locks have the brand name on the latch or bolt plate located on the door edge. If not, attach ...
|
| making the lock lock | 8/28/2009 |
Q: I have one of those simple locks on my room that don't use an actual "key" per say. it's push button ...
A: It sounds like the lock is malfunctioning so you'll need to replace it. It's not likely it can be ...
|
| Failed door hardware | 8/27/2009 |
Q: I have Weslock 600 series hardware on my house. My front door has failed to open. I have removed ...
A: You'll have to forcibly remove the latch mechanism. A hammer and cold chisel usually do the trick. ...
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| re-keying locks | 8/24/2009 |
Q: I just recently bought a second home and want to re-key the locks at the second home to the same key ...
A: If you buy one of those do-it-yourself kits from a hardware store make sure it's for Kwikset Titan ...
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| Peachtree Triple Latch | 8/24/2009 |
Q: I have a Peachtree Citadel patio french door that has a triple-latch on the active panel. The ...
A: That last time I dealt with one of those even I had trouble so I'd highly recommend hiring a ...
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| Master Deadbolt | 8/23/2009 |
Q: I am looking for a Master deadbolt with a MD1054K keyway. Is there a specific way I can determine ...
A: I don't deal with that brand with regards to non-padlocks so I'm not sure but I think all the ...
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| Installing Schlage deadbolt | 8/23/2009 |
Q: I have run into a problem installing a single cylinder Schlage deadbolt that came as part of a ...
A: When installing deadbolts it's important to turn the tailpiece the right direction before installing ...
|
| house door won't open | 8/23/2009 |
Q: My front house door won't open. The key works and it lock and unlocks but the mechanism that goes ...
A: Remove the screws that hold the lock onto the door then manually retract the latch or bolt. Once ...
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| re-keying locks | 8/23/2009 |
Q: I just recently bought a second home and want to re-key the locks at the second home to the same key ...
A: To rekey locks to match others you first must have the same keyway - the keyway is the milling of ...
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| School Security | 8/20/2009 |
Q: I work at an elementary school and we are looking for a way to allow our substitutes to secure the ...
A: I'm not clear on what you are trying to accomplish. They can't secure the room if the outside ...
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| Removal of Sargent Doorknob Set | 8/19/2009 |
Q: I believe this Sargent set dates from the build date of my house which was 1962. It's keyed on the ...
A: There are different styles of knobs that Sargent makes. You may have another model. Look at the ...
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| Removal of Sargent Doorknob Set | 8/19/2009 |
Q: I believe this Sargent set dates from the build date of my house which was 1962. It's keyed on the ...
A: On the knob where it tapers down toward the rose, there should be 2 holes across from each other. ...
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| Removal of Sargent Doorknob Set | 8/19/2009 |
Q: I believe this Sargent set dates from the build date of my house which was 1962. It's keyed on the ...
A: On the inside knob there's a small hole toward the back of the knob. Insert a small probe to ...
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| key making | 8/19/2009 |
Q: how difficult is it to learn to use a key machine? i have interviewed for a job in which i will have ...
A: The first thing to know is how to determine the keyway of the key you need to copy. The keyway is ...
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| Sargent mortise door lock | 8/18/2009 |
Q: do you know where to get parts for a Sargent mortise lock that is probably from the 50's has door ...
A: I don't think that Sargent makes any parts for older locks. They have discontinued older models and ...
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| deadbolt | 8/17/2009 |
Q: I'm trying to replace a deadbolt. It uses a key on both sides. I can't seem to figure out how to get ...
A: It's likely those are tacks that have been hammered into the screw heads. If they aren't flush with ...
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| ideal security deadbolt lock | 8/17/2009 |
Q: how do I remove the lock from the door?
A: Turn the key on the inside to expose the small slot opening. Find a steel pin, or allen wrench, that ...
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| door lock | 8/17/2009 |
Q: I have a bathroom know that is ceramic and there is no keyhole or screws on plate under the knob. ...
A: The knobs are held in place by set screws. They are small but they should be on the small part of ...
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| Removing Lori Deadbolt | 8/8/2009 |
Q: I saw your response regarding the removal of a lori deadbolt. We do not have a key. Is there any way ...
A: If your deadbolt has a removable plate around the bolt: 1. Remove the faceplate from the edge of the ...
|
| opening a deadbolt | 8/7/2009 |
Q: The front door of my apt has 2 deadbolts both w/turn latches on the interior, and only one is opened ...
A: The single-sided deadbolt wasn't locked and she had a key to the other one, or she entered through ...
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| HELP | 8/7/2009 |
Q: can you put the chamber from one lock into a new lock set? i paid a good amount of money two years ...
A: That depends on the brand of cylinder, the style it's designed for and the type of lock you are ...
|
| KEYREMOVAL | 8/6/2009 |
Q: EXCHANGING A NEW TUMBLER , EVERYTHING FINE EXCEPT WHEN I LOCK THE DOOR I CAN NOT REMOVE THE KEY ...
A: Is this on a deadbolt? When installing deadbolts it's important to turn the tailpiece the right ...
|
| 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: A drive-in latch has no faceplate so I'm not sure what you mean. Normal latches have a faceplate ...
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| Safety Deposit Box Key | 8/5/2009 |
Q: My father passed away in February. I have one key which allowed me to access his safety deposit ...
A: I'm not sure why your father would have 2 keys to the same box. The bank usually has one that fits ...
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| Steelcase Filing Cabinet | 8/3/2009 |
Q: I have a 3 drawer filing cabinet that seems to be locked. I purchased a replacement key for it, and ...
A: If the lock is supposed to be pushed in when locked and it's not right now but the drawers won't ...
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| Schlage lock | 8/3/2009 |
Q: ...I have a schlage deadbolt and knob lock set on my security door. When I lock the knob part, I ...
A: Schlage locks have a safety feature which cannot be modified. They do make those without that ...
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| Medeco Double Cylinder | 8/2/2009 |
Q: I purchased a home that has a double cylinder deadbolt on it. I am in need of help in figuring out ...
A: The compression rings on Medeco locks are hard to remove but they do come off with patience. You ...
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| replacing deadbolt | 8/1/2009 |
Q: I purchased a home last year which came with a defective deabdolt. The deadbolt won't move when the ...
A: I'd suggest calling a locksmith and have them drop by for a quote. They can also tell you if the ...
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| Yale commercial door knob hardware removal | 7/30/2009 |
Q: I bought some salvaged commercial doors with hardware (door knob levers). I want to use the doors in ...
A: Is this the inside or outside assembly? Have you tried removing the other side? Do you have a ...
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| frozen lock | 7/30/2009 |
Q: door has old Baldwin lock approximately 50+yrs old. Has a thumbturn on the inside and key on the ...
A: Try pushing or pulling on the door as you turn the thumbturn to unlock it. Sometimes the bolt can ...
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| Kwikset latch jammed | 7/28/2009 |
Q: I am in quite a dilemma. My door from the garage to the house slammed shut and now the key does not ...
A: Try pushing on the door (toward the closed position) as you use a screwdriver to push back the latch ...
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| Jado Mortise Locks | 7/27/2009 |
Q: Sir, I bought some beautiful solid wood doors off a house that was being remodeled. These doors ...
A: There are more measurements you need to check first but I'd start with Schlage L9080 series, Sargent ...
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| locked schlage door handle | 7/25/2009 |
Q: Our schlage bathroom/bedroom doorhandle was locked and then the door was closed locking us all out. ...
A: Most bathroom locks have a hole or a slot. For holes in the knob or lever, insert a nail and push. ...
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| Foley Belsaw | 7/24/2009 |
Q: James, I wanted to ask a question about Foley Belsaw. I am interested in learning the locksmith ...
A: I took the course and used what I learned to open my own business but I did learn more from hands-on ...
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| Mortise Lockset Trouble | 7/23/2009 |
Q: James, I hope you can help. I have a mortise lockset by Yale circa 1920's. The interior side spindle ...
A: Most mortise locks have split spindles so operating one side doesn't move the other side. To remove ...
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| Latch won't pull back completely | 7/22/2009 |
Q: I have tried to install a new lever style handleset. Following installation when you try to open ...
A: If you tighten the screws too much your issue will show up. If the lock isn't installed in the ...
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| pick proof padlocks | 7/22/2009 |
Q: I have a farm with lots of small buildings for workshops and tools and such. My problem is things go ...
A: You can start by trying some American Lock tubular key padlocks. These use a barrel key so are ...
|
| inside lock mechanism | 7/21/2009 |
Q: James, I have lost the inside mechanism to a 1964 Weiser doorknob. It has a 5 inch setback instead ...
A: Weiser makes a 5" backset for some of their locks. I'm not sure if your old lock will be compatible ...
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| commercial schlage door locks | 7/21/2009 |
Q: At my office we have schlage door lever with push button lock. No one can enter the door unless ...
A: You have two options: Replace the lock with an entry function lock that has a push/turnbutton on ...
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| Weiser locks | 7/20/2009 |
Q: Jim: When my home was built, Weiser locks were installed. As you say they are junk. I would like to ...
A: They must be painted on or is this a mortise lock? If they are painted on simply use a utility ...
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| miniature padlocks | 7/20/2009 |
Q: Greetings...Are there any well made difficult to pick miniature padlocks produced today?
A: I'm not clear on what you mean. I'm not aware of miniature padlocks other than luggage padlocks and ...
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| 1930s Russwin exterior mortise lock/cylinder | 7/19/2009 |
Q: I was told when I had the locks changed that these old mortise locks are not available anymore. ...
A: I'm not sure of the problem. Mortise lock cylinders are still made and are interchangeable with ...
|
| changing the single handles | 7/18/2009 |
Q: How do I change the entry handles on an LSDA ENTRY HANDLES on an LSDA single lever entry handle from ...
A: I've not dealt with that brand but most commercial locks aren't handed. Insert the latch so that ...
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| Sargent locks | 7/18/2009 |
Q: Hey, I need to rekey an office that has a Sargent double dead bolt lock and 2 door knobs. I usually ...
A: The deadbolt may have hidden screws, if so they are under the trim plate on the inside cylinder. If ...
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| high security | 7/18/2009 |
Q: What locks are the most pick and bump proof? Is Keymark as good as Medeco? Thank you, J
A: Keymark is a lower end model from Medeco. Compared to the Medeco M3 series, they are much lower. ...
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| keyless deadbolt for door with glass | 7/17/2009 |
Q: Does anyone make a keyless deadbolt that would be suitable for a residential door that has glass or ...
A: I'm not aware of any mainly because most manufacturers don't make things that could cause someone to ...
|
| broken key | 7/16/2009 |
Q: how do i get a broken key or take the handle off a upvc window in the locked postion
A: A locksmith will have to use a special extraction tool to remove the key. If you try it yourself it ...
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| mortise lock | 7/16/2009 |
Q: I have an issue with a brand new Marks mortise lock. It seems whenever I lock the deadbolt from ...
A: If it's not unlocking from the outside with the knob every single time there may be another issue ...
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| 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: It all depends on the bevel of the latch. It may be a right hand lock but if your door swings out ...
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| 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: Most locks are reversible. If it is, there should be instructions included on how to do that. Just ...
|
| Schlage vs. Primus | 7/15/2009 |
Q: James, I have been reading the literature and reading online about high-security locks. There is a ...
A: I'd go with ASSA because I can get them and only a few others can get the same keyway as I can. I ...
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| 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: It sounds like you installed the lock backwards. Does this happen from the inside too or does it ...
|
| handleset | 7/15/2009 |
Q: The handleset on my door has become loose on the inside. I was going to attempt to tighten it but I ...
A: That depends on the make/model. Some have a set screw that you must loosen to remove the inside ...
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| education | 7/14/2009 |
Q: im interested in becoming a locksmith, i live in the south florida area what school do you ...
A: I do not. Most established locksmith shops have a program, generally 2 years hands-on, basically a ...
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| master keying old locksets | 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: First I'd suggest replacing locking knobs or levers with non-locking ones to keep the number of ...
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| Oops Sorry, I found the answer, but | 7/9/2009 |
Q: My second question would be whether you think the Kwikset Smartkey grade one double cylinder is a ...
A: I wouldn't call the lock bump proof, bump resistant maybe but then again no lock that uses a ...
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| double cylinder bump proof lock | 7/9/2009 |
Q: I am befuddled. If I purchase a double cylinder lock that is a Kwikset smartkey where I can re key ...
A: You can read more about the Smart key here: http://www.kwikset.com/smartseries/smartkey.aspx In ...
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| schlage lock problem | 7/7/2009 |
Q: on my front door entry my key used to work fine then stopped working. I found that if I put it in ...
A: No you need to remove it and take it to a locksmith for repair. It could be your key. Has it been ...
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| Deadbolt locks keep on getting stuck | 7/7/2009 |
Q: I am just about going nuts with having to replace a deadbolt lock every six months (different ...
A: What is sticking on the locks? Is it the key not working? If so it's because they haven't been ...
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| backset | 7/7/2009 |
Q: we have an old door with a backset of 4 in and 5/8!! Can we possibly find a backset that deep ...
A: The closest I know of is 5". You'd have to re-drill the door to accept that and may have to cover ...
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| sliding door lock | 7/6/2009 |
Q: I have a Kawneer sliding patio door in my condo. The door is probably 25 years old. It is locked in ...
A: Try lifting on the door as you pull it open. If that doesn't work, try inserting a stiff thin ...
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| Sargent Keyso locks | 7/6/2009 |
Q: I have a Sargent,10 line in a Keyso series lock that is only one year old. The key will not operate ...
A: Any lock that requires the key to turn before removing the outside knob or lever must be picked open ...
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| Brass handle door knob.When locked it can still be pushed open. | 7/6/2009 |
Q: The deadlatch extends far enough, it extends fully after I release it.When pushing in on the smaller ...
A: If the spring latch is going in half way as the deadlatch is also pushed in half way you need to ...
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| Brass handle door knob.When locked it can still be pushed open. | 7/6/2009 |
Q: The deadlatch extends far enough, it extends fully after I release it.When pushing in on the ...
A: I'm not sure of your situation. A locking knob or lever has a deadlatch. The deadlatch is the ...
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| Locking partly open sliding door | 7/5/2009 |
Q: James. I want to be able to open my sliding glass door about an inch (for cross ventilation) and ...
A: Actually the one I'm referring to is for those sliding doors that are on the outside like yours. ...
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| Larson storm door locks | 7/4/2009 |
Q: I have 4 larson storm doors (new) I want to key them all alike. What type wafers do I need? Where ...
A: Most new storm doors use standard lock pins. Any locksmith will have those. I'd suggest taking the ...
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| Locking partly open sliding door | 7/4/2009 |
Q: James. I want to be able to open my sliding glass door about an inch (for cross ventilation) and ...
A: There is a lock that's available that locks onto your track and has a pin that goes into a hole ...
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| Installing Weiser Timbler | 7/3/2009 |
Q: Your information on removing the tumbler on a Weiser lock was very helpful. I've re-keyed it but ...
A: On the back of the knob is a spindle right in the middle of the housing. Pull that back, it's ...
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| gate lock | 7/3/2009 |
Q: I have a Schlage gate lock model # b520-286 dead bolt. Every time I insert the key to the keyhole, ...
A: The lock needs to be removed from the gate and repaired. If you take it to a locksmith shop they ...
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| Abus 190CS will not unlock | 7/3/2009 |
Q: We have an Abus 190CS/60 padlock. It is only a week old. For the past few days it has worked fine, ...
A: You'll have to keep trying. There is only one other way to get it open and that involves destroying ...
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| Dexter deadbolt - How to remove one | 7/1/2009 |
Q: I've read your posts on Dexter 2 sided deadbolts, however none seems to address my lock type. I have ...
A: Both cylinders operate independently from each other. Some older deadbolts have a plate the covers ...
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| Dexter deadbolt - How to remove one | 7/1/2009 |
Q: I've read your posts on Dexter 2 sided deadbolts, however none seems to address my lock type. I have ...
A: The pesky screwheads you describe may be tacks that are hammered into the screw heads. If they ...
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| Kwikset Titan Remote Acess One | 6/30/2009 |
Q: I am feeding pets for a friend. They have Titan remote lock on front door it will not open. I have ...
A: If you have the key then any electronic issue wouldn't cause your key not to work. They may have ...
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| Schlage Interconnected Lock | 6/30/2009 |
Q: I have a schlage interconnected lock from the 70's on my front entrance door. I've taken it apart to ...
A: The spacing between those is normally 4" which is enough for a standard lock and deadbolt ...
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| keys that are hard to work | 6/29/2009 |
Q: I have a very simple question. I am staying at my sister's house while she is out of town. The ...
A: How long have you had that key? Has it worked since you got it but just now caused an issue? Look ...
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| privacy lock | 6/29/2009 |
Q: i have just bought and fitted...or attempted...to fit a privacy lock on my bathroom door. ihow does ...
A: All locks work differently. What brand is it? Is that brand found in the US as well as the UK? Do ...
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| Kwickset vs Schlage locks | 6/29/2009 |
Q: I'm trying to decide between putting a Schlage lock on our front door or a Kwickset brand lock. ...
A: For years I've recommended Schlage. Recently Kwikset introduced a new Grade 2 (commercial) line ...
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| Deadbolt not working properly from outside | 6/28/2009 |
Q: I have a Kwikset deadbolt lock that requires a key on both sides. In a bonehead move, while ...
A: For most deadbolts, installation can be tricky but with Kwikset I'm surprised there is an issue. ...
|
| Exterior handleset thumb latch failure | 6/26/2009 |
Q: Our Baldwin 85375.DBLC Glennon double cylinder handleset failed to open. The thumb actuator ...
A: From the Baldwin site: How do I get replacement products for items covered by your warranties? If ...
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| construction lock | 6/25/2009 |
Q: It looks like you are the man for this? I have been working for a small residential hardware company ...
A: I've never done this but here is my understanding on how to do it: Approach construction keying ...
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| Need to replace lockset, cannot identtify it. | 6/22/2009 |
Q: When I bought my home there were 5 locks on the front door! The original and main lock and handle ...
A: That looks like part of an interconnected lock. You can see a full one here: ...
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| creating a master key | 6/22/2009 |
Q: I was wondering if there are any generic guidelines to follow when creating a grand master for a ...
A: As with any master key system you have to watch out for ghost keys - keys which could be used that ...
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| Weiser Door Knobs with and without locks | 6/21/2009 |
Q: James, I have a house full of Weiser door knobs - some with locks, some without. Is it possible to ...
A: Weiser locks use a 2-3/8" backset like most locks but the latch mechanism is a bit shorter. You can ...
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| What type of lock is this? | 6/17/2009 |
Q: I recently came across this lock and was intrigued as to how it worked. Im familiar with most types ...
A: I've never seen that before. It appears to be a keypad controlled lock. You may want to visit ...
|
| old dexter storm door latch | 6/16/2009 |
Q: I have an old (about 25 years old)dexter storm door latch which I have been told the manufacturer ...
A: Wright Security Products may have something that will fit. Check out their site: ...
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| Accessing Panic Hardware Lock Cylinder | 6/16/2009 |
Q: The "Kawneer" cylinder on our door is loose. How do I remove the panic bar and/or cover to access ...
A: Loosen the Allen screws at the latch side assembly then pull it off. The lock cylinder is held in ...
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| Cannot find the screws to tighten the old Schlage deadbolt | 6/15/2009 |
Q: I am usually pretty good with hardware. But I am having no success in tightening the lock in my ...
A: I'm not sure what you are referring to when you say 'rectangular lip'. The round trim plate against ...
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| How to remove screw cover | 6/12/2009 |
Q: The contractor handleset has a screw cover or decorative locknut? that I haven't been able to ...
A: Most of the time those are just covers to conceal the screw. It should just pop off unless someone ...
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| numeric keyless lock for entry and exit | 6/12/2009 |
Q: I have a child with autism who frequently escapes. We need a door lock that will be able to keep him ...
A: There are two options: Mechanical or electronic. Mechanical locks have only 1 code and it can be ...
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| How to uninstall a lock | 6/12/2009 |
Q: I cannot figure out how to uninstall a simple lock. Unlike most you buy today, it has no visible ...
A: With no visible screws for the lock assembly that means the only option is that the screws are ...
|
| Kwikset Smartkey keyway | 6/11/2009 |
Q: I read your reply about "kwikset keyway" In which a gentleman asked the difference between KW1 & ...
A: A KW5, which is also an A1176, is a 5 pin key with an oval head. An 1176D is a special Kwikset key ...
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| reused door with dead bolt lock that will not open | 6/9/2009 |
Q: I need some advise on how to take a dead bolt lock out of a door if you have no key, it will not ...
A: Can you describe the lock in more detail? You first must remove the lock housings before you can ...
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| deadbolt lock issue | 6/9/2009 |
Q: Greetings and thank you for answering my question. I noticed today that the deadbolt lock for my ...
A: Push, pull, push down or pull up on the door as you unlock it. The bolt may be jammed in the strike ...
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| must turn knob to shut door | 6/7/2009 |
Q: The latch on our house's back door will not move unless the knob is turned. Just started today. If ...
A: Check the latch as it touches the strike plate. Make sure the beveled part of the latch hits the ...
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| Kwikset lock | 6/6/2009 |
Q: I installed a kwikset signature series lock but the lock cylinder was upside down. I removed the ...
A: I'd have to look but don't the cylinders in that series have a different way of staying inside the ...
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| weiser lockset | 6/5/2009 |
Q: James, We have a keyed Weiser push & turn lockset on an interior closet door. It appears something ...
A: Turn the key and keep it turned as you turn the lock. If something is pushing against the inside ...
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| 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: Yale makes a deadlock, model 112 that is close to that model except it uses 4 mounting screws ...
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| Spare Keys for a Toyota Corolla? | 6/4/2009 |
Q: James.....I do absolutely apologize for asking an "automotive" question but my fiance and I have ...
A: Call your local locksmith shops and one of them should be able to make you a copy or two. Stay away ...
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| Removing a Schlage 6-pin cylinder without a key | 6/2/2009 |
Q: I need help, I lost the key but still want to keep the cylinder. How do I remove a 6-pin cylinder ...
A: The lock will have to be picked open. There is no way to remove a cylinder from that type of lock ...
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| Schlage Storeroom Lock | 6/2/2009 |
Q: I had a Schlage storage room lock. I locked myself out and the locksmith came. He used a drill to ...
A: Unfortunately your only solution short of calling that locksmith back and making them fix the ...
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| Schlage double keyed deadbolt? | 5/31/2009 |
Q: We bought new locks to replace the ones in this older home we just bought. It has Schlage double ...
A: If you drill them off you may damage the screw heads and you'll be in the same situation. The trim ...
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| Schlage double keyed deadbolt? | 5/30/2009 |
Q: We bought new locks to replace the ones in this older home we just bought. It has Schlage double ...
A: If the inside cover plate around the key hole has a raised area at 3 and 9 o'clock then they are ...
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| morse door lock | 5/30/2009 |
Q: We have a very old home. The front door has what I think is called a "Morse" door lock. It has the 2 ...
A: I believe what you have is a mortise lock. The set screws on the handles hold them on the spindle ...
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| discontinued schlage commercial privacy lockset | 5/29/2009 |
Q: Trying to remove a commercial privacy lockset from a school door I am reversing. Looked at the ...
A: Sometimes a paperclip is too large to fit into the hole far enough to push the retainer. Try a ...
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| WEISER FRONT DOOR ELECTRONIC LOCK | 5/28/2009 |
Q: James, I have a 10+ year old electronic keypad lock. It has just started beeping for 20 seconds and ...
A: That lock has surpassed its lifespan. It may be time to replace it. Kwikset, who now owns the ...
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| Titan Deadbolt will not unlock | 5/28/2009 |
Q: The interior handle just turns and turns. When I remove the interior cover plate it all seems fine ...
A: The tailpiece that is attached to the outside cylinder should be going through the bolt housing and ...
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| Dexter Double Cylinder Deadbolt is stuck | 5/26/2009 |
Q: James, I have a Dexter double cylinger deadbolt and cannot unlock the door. When the key is ...
A: First try lifting, pushing, pulling or pressing down on the door as you unlock it. The bolt may be ...
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| Schlage double cylinder deadbolt | 5/26/2009 |
Q: I have a Schlage double cylinder deadbolt on my front door. There are no holes on either plate, and ...
A: Pry the cover plate on the inside cylinder off. Under that are the mounting screws. First try ...
|
| shrouded padlock | 5/26/2009 |
Q: I have a shrouded padlock on my boat storage unit. My key has broken off in the lock. How do I get ...
A: Use a small drill bit. Insert it manually into the key hole next to the key and pull. Do not use a ...
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| Is it worth upgrading to an Everest primus(ULor not) or Medeco Primus? | 5/25/2009 |
Q: Recently there has been quite a few break-in in my neighorhood so I was pondering if I should ...
A: How were they breaking in? Were they picking the locks, bumping them or just breaking a window? ...
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| deadbolt | 5/23/2009 |
Q: I have the same problem as James 8/8/2007. I'm trying to remove the deadbolt from my front door. ...
A: Those 2 circles could be tacks that are hammered into the screw heads. They will come out with some ...
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| Keys | 5/22/2009 |
Q: I have several used 2 drawer lateral filing cabinets without keys. I can't determine the ...
A: I'm not where I can look up codes but it could be HON cabinets. If you have access to another ...
|
| Sargent Lock | 5/21/2009 |
Q: I have removed the door knob (which is just an entry knob that does not lock) I also have removed ...
A: There are many styles of Sargent locks and they all install differently. Do you have a photo you ...
|
| Titan door knobs & locks | 5/20/2009 |
Q: My home was built in 2000. All the exterior doors knobs are a Titan brand. First of all, I am having ...
A: Titan was made by Kwikset but they discontinued that line quite a few years ago. They now refer to ...
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| Schlage Entry Lockset Problem | 5/20/2009 |
Q: I have a Schlage F51 entry lockset that has been working fine for about a year. Now, the latch will ...
A: Did you buy the lock from a locksmith or a home center/hardware store? Sometimes any brand of lock ...
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| Schlage Entry Lockset Problem | 5/20/2009 |
Q: I have a Schlage F51 entry lockset that has been working fine for about a year. Now, the latch will ...
A: Open the door. Press the latch in manually. Does it go smoothly? Are there scratches on the ...
|
| Handle on French Door hardware fell off | 5/18/2009 |
Q: The inside handle to my patio door fell off and I cannot figure out how to fix it. It appears like ...
A: I need a better picture or description. Are there any marks on the door edge plate that the latch ...
|
| yale combination safe | 5/17/2009 |
Q: My father recently passed away leaving us a Yale brown combination safe that is about 13.75" w x ...
A: I don't answer safe questions. 4 times left past the first number stopping on the first number. 3 ...
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| how to remove deadbolt lock from door | 5/16/2009 |
Q: i have a kwikset titan deadbolt that i would like to replace. it opens with a latch (i guess you'd ...
A: There are two black screws under the thumbturn piece that accept a flat head screwdriver. Remove ...
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| Keyed Alike Cylinders | 5/15/2009 |
Q: I would like to know if it is possible to key alike a 1 1/2" mortise cylinder door lock with a ...
A: ASSA, Medeco or a local restricted system from your local locksmith may be cheaper. If the locks ...
|
| ABUS Lock | 5/15/2009 |
Q: My husband (Irish) has jammed the wrong key in my ABUS security lock on my bike. Do you know if and ...
A: You'll have to hire a locksmith for help. If you try to remove the key it may break off in the lock ...
|
| Yale surface mount deadbolt | 5/15/2009 |
Q: I have an old Yale surface mount deadbolt lock that has worn out and I'd like to replace the part ...
A: Yale makes a few of those. You can view them starting on page 20 of this link: ...
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| single sided thumbturn deadbolt | 5/14/2009 |
Q: I have a condo and want to replace the single sided thumbturn deadbolt on the inside of my door. ...
A: The only ones I know of are made by Kwikset and Falcon. The Falcon one shows a 3" diameter rose so ...
|
| dead bolt not opening | 5/13/2009 |
Q: i have two locks on my back door. one is the regular knob with lock the second a deadbolt that has ...
A: Try lifting, pushing, pulling or pushing down on the door as you turn the thumbpiece on the inside. ...
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| communicatiing lockset vs deadlatch | 5/12/2009 |
Q: I have a gate with an electric strike controlled by a buzzer. I need the lock set to be keyed on ...
A: An Asylum function or similar knob or lever would work on your application. If you used a deadlatch ...
|
| Rekeying Schlage locks for 3 doors | 5/11/2009 |
Q: On average if you call a locksmith how much will they charge to rekey Schlage locks for 3 doors. The ...
A: You'd have to call around locksmiths in your area to get prices. Charges vary based on location & ...
|
| Push-in Chicago filing cabinet lock | 5/9/2009 |
Q: My push-in lock on a Steelcase filing cabinet pushes in but doesn't lock,i.e., doesn't stay pushed ...
A: That type of lock requires the eyes of a locksmith. I can't be certain what the issue is unless I ...
|
| Jamed door knob.. Well you can kinda call it that | 5/9/2009 |
Q: I have a Jamed door knob. The knob it's self turns all the way around but there is a little part ...
A: It seems you can see the latch from the side you are on. Does that mean the door opens out? in ...
|
| Non-Functioning Turn Button on Commercial Door Handle | 5/8/2009 |
Q: I have a commercial door handle (installed) on which the turn button does not work. I have the key. ...
A: Depress the retainer in the small slot on the inside knob and pull the knob off. Pry up the trim ...
|
| weiser locks | 5/6/2009 |
Q: I have about 60 single cylinder deadbold Weiser locks that I have used over the last 10 years. ...
A: This is exactly why I try to steer people away from Weiser. They are junk. I've never had good ...
|
| Emtek that can't be rekeyed? | 5/6/2009 |
Q: We had an Emtek key in knob on the front door to our condo building. Another owner lost her keys ...
A: I wasn't 100% positive so I contacted Emtek and they stated that all of their locks are rekeyable. ...
|
| removing round latch connector | 5/5/2009 |
Q: I'm trying to replace a 'worn out spring latch' from a very old door knob. I can remove the knob, ...
A: I generally use a screwdriver inserted behind the latch within the large hole in the door that is ...
|
| Weiser locks | 5/5/2009 |
Q: I had the weiser locks and deadbolts on two gargae doors rekeyed.... After the locksmith/handyman ...
A: It sounds like your locksmith isn't a real locksmith so you should hire a different one to fix the ...
|
| door nob kwikset | 5/4/2009 |
Q: kwikset,i have taken the round spindle out and tried to removed the cylinder. i put the cylinder ...
A: The tool must be in straight and aligned exactly with the retainer springs on the back of the ...
|
| Mosler combination locks | 5/4/2009 |
Q: I want to use a twenty year old 2 drawer Mosler GSA approved safe but forgot the order of the ...
A: As it states on my question page I don't answer safe questions. Left 4 times stop on first number. ...
|
| Atrium lock | 5/3/2009 |
Q: I have an Atrium mortise lock on a French door and the spring loaded mechanism no longer works for ...
A: Most locks are not repairable. Atrium locks are one of those. Parts are not available for that ...
|
| Sliding Door Lock | 4/3/2009 |
Q: I have a customer that would like a lock installed on a glass sliding door. Do you know of a ...
A: A metal tube in the track is the best defense. The diameter needs to be the width of the track. I ...
|
| Schlage lock | 4/1/2009 |
Q: James, I purchased a house which has a LORI double-cylinder dead bolt on the rear door. The ...
A: If there are no holes next to the bolt then the trim plate around where the key goes into the inside ...
|
| Schlage lock | 4/1/2009 |
Q: James, I purchased a house which has a LORI double-cylinder dead bolt on the rear door. The ...
A: Wait you pulled the plate off of the bolt? There should be two holes next to the bolt, one on one ...
|
| thumbturn for keyed lockset | 3/30/2009 |
Q: My girlfriend has two exit doors which are keyed both sides. I told her it was dangerous to have a ...
A: If she keeps a key in the inside lock assembly while she's home it won't be a problem unless there ...
|
| buying a deadbolt which uses a 1 5/8" bore | 3/29/2009 |
Q: I have a door with a 1 5/8" hole for a deadbolt. I cannot find a new deadbolt that will fit the ...
A: Most deadbolts will fit into an 1-1/2" hole. Since yours is 1/8" larger you shouldn't have any ...
|
| Schlage FE595 | 3/27/2009 |
Q: I just purchased a replacement lock for my back door. I purchased a Schlage FE595. Unfortunately I ...
A: From what I can tell it's possible that the latch you mentioned will work but Schlage doesn't ...
|
| kiwkset single cylinder deadbolts | 3/27/2009 |
Q: buddys at work on apt complex want to know how many cobinations are there for a kwikset single ...
A: On a 5 pin lock with 6 depths there are about 8000 possible combinations. If you are master keying ...
|
| Melink fireproof filecabnet with Sargent Greenlief lock | 3/26/2009 |
Q: With cabinet serial # can the manufacture give me the combination?
A: Safe locks can be changed at any time so there is no way to know the combination based on serial ...
|
| Dexter by Schlage re-key? | 3/26/2009 |
Q: I moved into a new house. The builder claims the locks reset once I used my personal (rather than ...
A: Schlage purchased Dexter but that doesn't make Dexter a good lock. Remove the locks and take them ...
|
| Allen Wrench "key" | 3/25/2009 |
Q: I am looking for an Allen Wrench "key" that janitors use to unlock the bars on the inside of doors. ...
A: You need a Von Duprin 227 or similar. It's a 5/32" hex wrench with a loop designed for Von Duprin ...
|
| locks | 3/24/2009 |
Q: I have some Schlage ND series locks that have no keys. How can I get the cylinders out of the locks ...
A: Those lock cylinders are stuck in there until the cylinder can be turned, either by a key or picks. ...
|
| door knob | 3/23/2009 |
Q: I have a very old house. It was built in the 1920's. The door I need help with is the entrance door ...
A: It sounds like your spindle is in 2 pieces which may or may not be the way it's supposed to be. ...
|
| kwikset | 3/23/2009 |
Q: how do you change the backset on a entry lock from 2 3/8 to 2 3/4
A: Most Kwikset latches and bolts are adjustable. Some you have to twist others you have to lift a ...
|
| Schlage Lock Problem | 3/22/2009 |
Q: I am removing a OLD Schlage Lever Lock. I think it is 10+ Years Old. I already remove lever and 2 ...
A: On that photo follow the stem back into the trim plate and you'll see a threaded part. A bit ...
|
| loose door lever | 3/22/2009 |
Q: I have a 20 year old Peachtree patio entry door with a floppy lever. How do I tighten it? I've ...
A: I'm not sure you can tighten the levers on those. They are integrated into the trim plates. You ...
|
| Removing a Titan doorknob | 3/21/2009 |
Q: I can't find any screws or clips. I can get the plate off that covers the hole in the door, but ...
A: This is a very long link so I'm not sure it will show up correctly: ...
|
| loose door lever | 3/19/2009 |
Q: I have a 20 year old Peachtree patio entry door with a floppy lever. How do I tighten it? I've ...
A: I need more information. Do you have a photo you could attach to this question? Can you describe ...
|
| screen door | 3/18/2009 |
Q: I have undone all screws om my security screen but can't slide the barrelout I want to replace the ...
A: If your lock cylinder is about 1-1/4" in diameter there is a set screw on the door edge holding it ...
|
| removing a harloc deadbolt | 3/17/2009 |
Q: I want to remove an old Harloc deadbolt and replace it. There's no key. Can you direct me on how to ...
A: If your deadbolt has a removable plate around the bolt: 1. Remove the faceplate from the edge of the ...
|
| seurity chains and padlocks | 3/17/2009 |
Q: My company has a lot of gates to secure and we are thinking of using a very hard (square cross ...
A: The American Lock A700, AH10 or A748. The Master Lock 6327, 6230 or 6721. The Pacific Lock Pac-Link ...
|
| New Double-Cylinder Deadbolt for gate | 3/16/2009 |
Q: I am looking to replace the deadbolt in this outdoor gate. I haven't been able to find anything ...
A: What is the backset of this lock? Measure from the edge of the gate where the bolt comes out to the ...
|
| schlage deadbolt removal | 3/16/2009 |
Q: I have an old schlage deadbolt. It is a single cylinder. The inside handle does not have any screws ...
A: The small holes should have screw heads in them. Single cylinder deadbolts generally don't have ...
|
| I C core American Padlock | 3/14/2009 |
Q: we are having trouble keying up this cylinder for an American Padlock,the keyway is a Best Q, so any ...
A: I'm not clear on what your question is. IC cores need to be keyed by a locksmith using an IC core ...
|
| Removal of Medeco Lock cylinder | 3/14/2009 |
Q: I have a medeco lock cylinder on a commercial door and am wanting to remove it. How do I go about ...
A: Open the door. On the edge is a plate that's about 7" tall. Remove the screws for that plate then ...
|
| old style lock cylinders | 3/11/2009 |
Q: I am brand new to locksmithing. I have been working on rekeying a house to all the same key. The ...
A: That sounds like a mortise lock. Remove the plate on the door edge and there should be 1 or 2 set ...
|
| Deadbolt Removal | 3/10/2009 |
Q: How do I remove this 30 yr old double cylinder deadbolt. Inside jamb said it is kwikset, no visible ...
A: I've not seen that type before in a Kwikset. Other locks I've seen that have that hole have another ...
|
| Disassembling 70's Schlage entry deadbolt combo | 3/8/2009 |
Q: I’m trying to replace an old Schlage door knob and deadbolt combination mounted together in one ...
A: I wish I could be of more assistance but the best advice I can give is to contact Schlage directly. ...
|
| Old locks with short backsets | 3/7/2009 |
Q: I need to replace an older Schlage deadbolt (keyed on one side, lever opener on interior side) that ...
A: We have 2" backset deadbolts but nothing in bright chrome or polished nickel, satin chrome would be ...
|
| sliding door lock | 3/6/2009 |
Q: i need a sliding glass door lock for a miller industires sliding door circa 1979 prior tenant rmoved ...
A: There are many brands and models of locks for sliding doors and every door manufacturer uses ...
|
| Jammed filing cabinet drawer | 3/5/2009 |
Q: I have a vertical 4 drawer filing cabinet. , no locks involved or even availbale. The top drawer is ...
A: Marie, I'd have to be there to see the cabinet to know what could be causing this. There could be ...
|
| Kwikset Deadbolt Outside Cover | 3/5/2009 |
Q: I have a Kwikset deadbolt with a knob lock on the inside. The outside cover around the key ...
A: The inside trim is removed by prying the plate up after removing the thumbturn piece. It will come ...
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| deadbolt not opening | 3/5/2009 |
Q: I have a Titan deadbolt lock and I am having a hard time getting it to unlock, the key turns but the ...
A: The tailpiece clip is likely coming loose. You'll have to remove the lock and take it to a ...
|
| Electric door stirke | 3/2/2009 |
Q: My building has a keycard system with electric door strikes. The strike on one of the doesn't seem ...
A: It sounds like your controller is not working right for that door. If you pass a card across the ...
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| yale deadbolt won't engage cylendar | 3/2/2009 |
Q: Front door Yale deadbolt is stuck in locked (extended) position with the key turniing left and ...
A: No need to apologize for asking questions, that's why I'm here. Apparently he wasn't thinking ...
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| yale deadbolt won't engage cylendar | 3/2/2009 |
Q: Front door Yale deadbolt is stuck in locked (extended) position with the key turniing left and ...
A: It sounds like his machine isn't calibrated correctly so some of the keys may work while others ...
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| yale deadbolt won't engage cylendar | 3/2/2009 |
Q: Front door Yale deadbolt is stuck in locked (extended) position with the key turniing left and ...
A: Are your locks rim style, meaning the part with the bolt is surface mounted to the interior of the ...
|
| rv dead bolt, double key | 3/2/2009 |
Q: I am looking to install the added protection of a dead bolt lock, keyed inside and outside, on my rv ...
A: I'm not sure who would carry such a lock but we have one, although it's not the best deadbolt made. ...
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| rv dead bolt, double key | 2/28/2009 |
Q: I am looking to install the added protection of a dead bolt lock, keyed inside and outside, on my rv ...
A: The only thing I'm aware of for RVs is a single cylinder deadbolt - keyed on the outside, thumbturn ...
|
| Amsec safe unlock | 2/27/2009 |
Q: We purchased a store with a small Amsec safe in the back room. It has a key pad to lock and unlock ...
A: To change the combination you must first know the current one. Depending on the model of lock that ...
|
| replacing of interior latch parts | 2/25/2009 |
Q: I have a number of Italian brass lock sets (passage, bathroom) that appear to be standard. The ...
A: You'll want to remove one of the locks and take it to a locksmith shop so they can try to match it ...
|
| Lost Mailbox Key | 2/24/2009 |
Q: I have lost the key to my mailbox which is part of a Knobloch multi-unit, is their anyway of getting ...
A: You can buy a replacement lock and change it yourself, if you can get the door open to remove it, or ...
|
| interior door lock out | 2/24/2009 |
Q: I have a locked interior door and cannot get into my bed room. In the past ( at my previous ...
A: Some privacy locks, which is what you likely have, use a pushbutton on the knob, others use a ...
|
| lock in old cedar chest | 2/23/2009 |
Q: I have a cedar chest that is about 100 years old. It is locked and the key has been misplaced. I ...
A: A magic marker works. There can be any number of wards and they can be anywhere. If the bit is the ...
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| lock in old cedar chest | 2/23/2009 |
Q: I have a cedar chest that is about 100 years old. It is locked and the key has been misplaced. I ...
A: The problem is with barrel keys and the lock they operate is that it's possible that you filed too ...
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| lock in old cedar chest | 2/23/2009 |
Q: I have a cedar chest that is about 100 years old. It is locked and the key has been misplaced. I ...
A: Congratulations on filing the key to the point of it almost working. Most people don't understand ...
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| kwikset cylinder with stuck key | 2/23/2009 |
Q: I have a kwikset 6 point knob lock between the house and the garage. When the neighbor let herself ...
A: You'll want to hire a locksmith to fix that. Cylinder shouldn't just come out and even if you were ...
|
| Schlage Locks | 2/21/2009 |
Q: Is there any way to change a Schlage lock so that when you are going outside and the lock is locked ...
A: My advice to everyone regardless of the brand or model of locking lever or knob on every exterior ...
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| triple bored front door | 2/21/2009 |
Q: James, i recently bought a home in north carolina and started to update immediately. one of my first ...
A: Can you attach a photo so I can get a better idea of what you mean? You may be able to use a wrap ...
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| kwikset deadbolt | 2/21/2009 |
Q: I am trying to replace this deadbolt and have taken the screws out of the interior side and the bolt ...
A: There were two screws on the inside trim that you removed? Were they longer than 1/4"? If not, ...
|
| can a schlalge doulble cylinder be converted to singel cylinder? | 2/21/2009 |
Q: I have three double cylinder handlesets, schlage F362 V and sadly the person I bought them for ...
A: You can't convert double to single or vice-versa. A single cylinder uses a longer tailpiece and a ...
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| schlage f | 2/20/2009 |
Q: Is there a way to get the cylinder out of the knob without a key? do I have to pickit first, because ...
A: To remove the knob from the lock body you must have a key, or pick it. To remove the cylinder from ...
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| key stuck in deadbolt | 2/20/2009 |
Q: I recently removed and then had rekeyed all 6 schlage double keyed deadbolts in my house. When I ...
A: It looks like a Lori lock. They use a mortise cylinder that is set by a set screw from the door ...
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| deadbolt locks | 2/20/2009 |
Q: I would like for you to check out a new lock on the market. It is 6 pin, two locks in one and seems ...
A: If this is a commercial inquiry please direct yourself to our website as this is an open forum for ...
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| Dual Key Storm Door Mortise Lock Brand | 2/20/2009 |
Q: Can you tell me which manufacturers/brands make a Store Door Mortise Lock with keys on both sides ...
A: I would first need to know the thickness and width of the stile of the door. If you have a lock on ...
|
| How to determine state requirements | 2/16/2009 |
Q: I'm interested in starting a part-time locksmithing business, but I have no idea how to determine my ...
A: The following states require locksmith licensing: Alabama California Connecticut Illinois Louisiana ...
|
| Franklin 2-cylinder jimmy-proof bolt won't lock | 2/16/2009 |
Q: I had a Franklin 2-cylinder jimmy-proof bolt (Model #1967CS) installed on my kitchen door (with a ...
A: Jimmy-proof locks aren't that great for doors that expand and contract with the weather and ...
|
| Andersen Frenchwood Hinged Patio Door | 2/16/2009 |
Q: I have bought Andersen double door hardware (Newbury), but it includes only dummy lock. Can you ...
A: What is the width of the stile (the vertical portion of the door that the lock is installed onto)? ...
|
| Kwikset Single Cylinder Deadbolt Removal | 2/15/2009 |
Q: I have a lock that is apparently an Ultra Max lock, because there are no screws on the thumbscrew ...
A: Once the thumbturn piece is removed pry up the trim plate. There should be a small slot in it to ...
|
| schlage lock | 2/15/2009 |
Q: we have a schlage lever lock that needs the cylinder changed they sent us a new cylinder but we ...
A: Insert a working key into the lock and turn it until it stops as you insert a probe into one of the ...
|
| change a posse lock | 2/15/2009 |
Q: I want to change my doorknob, the kind that i have is a Posse lock and it does not have the normal ...
A: As previously stated, insert a probe into one of the small holes in the knob to depress the retainer ...
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| change a posse lock | 2/14/2009 |
Q: I want to change my doorknob, the kind that i have is a Posse lock and it does not have the normal ...
A: I've not heard of that brand but most locks that have hidden screws can be removed by first ...
|
| Mas-Hamilton x-07 | 2/13/2009 |
Q: I would like to change the combination on my newly purchased x-07 but didn't receive the change key. ...
A: You'll need to contact the company you purchased the lock from to obtain a change key, or find a ...
|
| Kwikset deadlatch - 4" backset? | 2/11/2009 |
Q: I bought two handles for front and rear door and was sooo excited to install (I've done a bunch so ...
A: Your only option is to redrill the door for 2-3/4" backset and cover the old hole with a piece of ...
|
| 50s era Yale doorknob/lockset removal | 2/10/2009 |
Q: I have several 50s era Yale locksets, some privacy locks some passage on interior doors. Between ...
A: If they are mortise locks: There should be a set screw in one of the holes. The hole would be ...
|
| door won't open | 2/10/2009 |
Q: We have a mother-in-law quarters downstairs, so there is a locking lever type knob on the door. ...
A: Are you certain the lock is unlocked? Some locks allow the knob or lever to turn even when the lock ...
|
| storm door lock | 2/10/2009 |
Q: I am trying to change out my storm door lock and cannot figure out how to remove the old lock. I ...
A: Some storm doors have one type of lock and others have different ones. One style has what's called ...
|
| LATCH/BACKSET | 2/9/2009 |
Q: I HAVE A CUSTOMER THAT IS RENOVATING A HOUSE IN THE OLD DOWNTOWN SECTION OF JACKSONVILLE NC. THERE ...
A: The only thing that will be available is a Lori style deadbolt and unless you can find a source for ...
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| back door lock broken | 2/8/2009 |
Q: My back door is broken. I was able to take the handle off inside and outside but the "guts" are ...
A: If you are unable to retract the latch manually, you'll need to forcefully remove the latch ...
|
| knox laptop safe | 2/8/2009 |
Q: its a key pad combination. i inherited from grandfather, with out the combination is there a way to ...
A: I do not answer safe questions as stated on the question page. Even if I did my answer would still ...
|
| Unsticking rusted lock | 2/7/2009 |
Q: I have a pair of Tower (Single lock) handcuffs from the late 1860's. I also have the key. Here's ...
A: If WD-40 didn't work the only option, and to keep them as well, would be to disassemble them which ...
|
| medeco lock | 2/7/2009 |
Q: I have a medeco deadbolt lock that is about 20 years old which I would like to replace, the outside ...
A: If you have a double cylinder version, meaning the key operates either side, then the inside trim ...
|
| latch will not retract | 2/6/2009 |
Q: I have Schlage latch that won't push in. It is the kind that has the little piece that pushes in as ...
A: The small part is the deadlatch and is designed to prevent the larger part from being depressed when ...
|
| Corbin lockset | 2/6/2009 |
Q: I have an interior door in my office that has a corbin lockset on it and I want to remove it in ...
A: Some of those are tubular locksets which means the lock body hooks onto the latch instead of going ...
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| Locked-in!! | 2/6/2009 |
Q: I have a single cylinder deadbolt and when already locked both the interior face and exterior face ...
A: If you are able to remove the mounting screws and remove the lock assemblies you can manually ...
|
| Entry locks and deadbolts | 2/5/2009 |
Q: For residential use, which brands (and perhaps models) of entry locks and deadbolts are superior ...
A: Sargent, Yale, Arrow & the like are mostly high quality Grade 1 locks, although there are quality ...
|
| loose key hole area for dead bolt lock | 2/5/2009 |
Q: The area on the door, where the key goes in is loose. The dead bolt works fine but I was worried ...
A: I'm not clear on the issue. The plug, the part that turns when you insert the proper key and turn, ...
|
| Entry locks and deadbolts | 2/5/2009 |
Q: For residential use, which brands (and perhaps models) of entry locks and deadbolts are superior ...
A: First off I usually don't recommend entry knobs or levers on exterior doors due to the fact that 80% ...
|
| Changing an apartment combination lock | 2/5/2009 |
Q: So here is my problem. My sister and I have been apartment hunting for quite awhile and we have had ...
A: He may have just one maintenance person that can do that and he or she may be busy or only work ...
|
| Old safe, No Combination. Security Wall Safe Co. | 2/4/2009 |
Q: We bought a house about 6 months ago and there is an old safe in the concrete wall in the basement ...
A: I don't answer safe questions and besides which you need to hire a safe technician / locksmith to ...
|
| door knob | 2/3/2009 |
Q: i just want to know how to replace my door knob. i lost the key to the old one.
A: Without knowing the make or model it's hard to say. Standard locks are removed by unscrewing the 2 ...
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| Deadbolt uses the same key, but duplicates don't open it | 2/3/2009 |
Q: I recently moved into an new place which has a front and back door, both with a deadbolt and a ...
A: You have already figured out the solution. If after one attempt a big box store failed to make ...
|
| Jado Exterior Narrow Backset Lockset | 2/3/2009 |
Q: We have a polished brass, 1 3/8 backset, 1 3/8 wide cover plate Jado Lockset that is terribly ...
A: There aren't many locks that will fit a 1-3/8" backset. You can contact plating companies in your ...
|
| removing a deadbolt with key in and out | 2/2/2009 |
Q: I am trying to replace a double keyed deadbolt with a thumb type. I read your answer to someone ...
A: If your deadbolt has a removable plate around the bolt: 1. Remove the faceplate from the edge of the ...
|
| combonation | 1/30/2009 |
Q: just bought a hadark safe i have combination that is 45 65 25 now there are 2 lines on the plate ...
A: Some safes start by turning left, others start by turning right. Try it both ways. If you still ...
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| combonation | 1/30/2009 |
Q: just bought a hadark safe i have combination that is 45 65 25 now there are 2 lines on the plate ...
A: You are taking my instructions literally. Replace the numbers in the instructions with your actual ...
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| combonation | 1/30/2009 |
Q: just bought a hadark safe i have combination that is 45 65 25 now there are 2 lines on the plate ...
A: Use the mark at the 12 o'clock position. Turn counter-clockwise (left) 4 times and stop on 45. Turn ...
|
| compatible entry sets with electric strike | 1/30/2009 |
Q: I have a few conditions which are making restoration of my antique door difficult. I have a ...
A: Handlesets in general are not very good candidates for electric strikes as most have a very short ...
|
| mortise cylinder locks | 1/29/2009 |
Q: how do I make this lock only in one direction. For example, turn the key only to the right and only ...
A: The direction of turn for any key cylinder depends on the design of the lock it actuates. You ...
|
| Schlage, Titan Lock | 1/28/2009 |
Q: House Front Door. When the door is locked, the key on the inside of the Titan lock just does not ...
A: You can do it at home but I'd suggest getting a replacement E clip for it from a locksmith. I'd ...
|
| Schlage, Titan Lock | 1/28/2009 |
Q: House Front Door. When the door is locked, the key on the inside of the Titan lock just does not ...
A: The tailpiece of the inside assembly has become loose or is otherwise not properly connected to the ...
|
| Sargent push knob removal | 1/26/2009 |
Q: Hey James, I've noticed you commented on this problem before, notably a response a few days ago to ...
A: I wasn't sure if the photo showed the inside or outside knob assembly. They should both have the ...
|
| Sargent push knob removal | 1/26/2009 |
Q: Hey James, I've noticed you commented on this problem before, notably a response a few days ago to ...
A: I can't tell from the photos but it may be a Grade 1 lock. This means it comes off differently than ...
|
| Plug turns170 degrees but lock won't open? | 1/26/2009 |
Q: I picked a deadbolt Lockwood 007 and the plug turned until 11 O'clock and stopped, I tried forcing ...
A: As with any lock if it's not unlocking after picking, the bolt is likely stuck in the strike, ...
|
| handleset stuck - can't get into garage - HELP! | 1/26/2009 |
Q: My Kwikset interior door handle (see approx. model info below) is STUCK, and I can't get into my ...
A: The link you provided is for the latch mechanism only not a lock so I'm not certain on what you ...
|
| Sargent push knob removal | 1/26/2009 |
Q: Hey James, I've noticed you commented on this problem before, notably a response a few days ago to ...
A: I believe the other question referred to a damaged lock that was beyond repair, not that removing it ...
|
| Car Entry Kit | 1/26/2009 |
Q: I bought a PRO-LOC auto entry book now I'm deciding what entry lockout kit to by for my mobile ...
A: Pro-Lok is a good choice. I used High Tech Tools myself but I only did cars for a few years then ...
|
| Loose deadbolt...how do I get the faceplate off? | 1/26/2009 |
Q: I have a relatively new Weiser lock and the deadbolt is getting more and more loose...sometimes we ...
A: If your deadbolt has a removable plate around the bolt: 1. Remove the faceplate from the edge of the ...
|
| Removing old Schlage Deadbolt | 1/24/2009 |
Q: I'm unable to find a way to remove an old Schlage deadbolt. I'm selling the house and the new owner ...
A: You see the spots to the left and right of the key hole? Those are tacks that are stuck inside the ...
|
| Balwin door handle | 1/24/2009 |
Q: My balwin door lock will not open from the outside. The thumb push down mechanism doesn't go all ...
A: You need to first find out if the latch is wedged in the strike plate. If so, adjust the strike ...
|
| Bathroom privacy lock broken | 1/24/2009 |
Q: My partner got locked in the bathroom because the privacy lock jammed shut. With some brute force he ...
A: On the inside knob or lever should be a small hole. Inside the hole is a retainer. Depress the ...
|
| schlage key cylinders | 1/23/2009 |
Q: Pella doors use a Schlage key cylinder the proper way for the cylinders to be used is with the teeth ...
A: The correct way for most locks to be installed is so the key cuts face up but with patio doors and ...
|
| schlage front door lock | 1/22/2009 |
Q: We have a long handle schlage front door lock - the kind you use your thumb to press the lever to ...
A: Without seeing the lock in person and what the issue is I can't say for certain how to fix it. ...
|
| i found a key i dont know what it goes to | 1/21/2009 |
Q: i found this key and i dont remember what it goes to but it says FIC on it and CF327 can you help me ...
A: You'll have to take that key to a local locksmith so they can look at it. I wouldn't be able to ...
|
| loose door lock | 1/19/2009 |
Q: I have a common home depot kwik set or schlage entry door lock. The area that the key cylinder goes ...
A: There should be a small tab on one side of the trim. You may need to adjust that part to get it to ...
|
| door knob | 1/19/2009 |
Q: we have, what i thought, was a standard bathroom door knob set. However, in trying to remove it, I ...
A: On the inside knob should be a small hole. Inside the hole is a retainer. Depress the retainer and ...
|
| Pls help me.. some more info needed | 1/18/2009 |
Q: Its a very simple problem but I cant figure out how. type : kwikset door - deadbolt - single ...
A: The part in the photo is called a thumbturn. It's held in place by that plastic piece. Remove the ...
|
| Key won't turn completely in Dexter double cylinder deadbolt | 1/18/2009 |
Q: I have a Dexter double cylinder deadbolt lock that has been problem-free until recently. This is a ...
A: It's not the key it's the lock. Insert your key and turn it to unlock as you push, pull, lift or ...
|
| Pls help me.. | 1/18/2009 |
Q: Its a very simple problem but I cant figure out how. type : kwikset door - deadbolt - single ...
A: http://www.kwikset.com/Support/default.aspx# You mean the thumbturn piece doesn't come off right? ...
|
| russwin retainer spring | 1/17/2009 |
Q: I've determined that my spring is shot; are these vintage (this from the 30s at least) springs ...
A: Contact locksmiths in your area first as one may have parts. It's unlikely though so you may also ...
|
| Deadbolt broken - can't remove | 1/17/2009 |
Q: The deadblot is thrown. I removed the safety plate from the inside, insert a crewdriver into the ...
A: Make sure the bolt isn't wedged in the strike plate by pushing, pulling, lifting or pushing down on ...
|
| Yale combo lock | 1/17/2009 |
Q: I have a safe built into a filing cabinet top drawer. It has a 2-wheel lock. I had a lock smith to ...
A: You'll have to get the locksmith that helped you before to show you how to open it. Some safes ...
|
| Yale combo lock | 1/16/2009 |
Q: I have a safe built into a filing cabinet top drawer. It has a 2-wheel lock. I had a lock smith to ...
A: Turn the dial left a few times then stop on the first number with the number exactly at the line at ...
|
| 1970s Sargent Pushbutton | 1/15/2009 |
Q: I'm the engineer for a building that was built in 1970, which give me some clue to the locks age... ...
A: Sargent Grade 1 locks, which is likely what you have, use a threaded rose to secure it to the door ...
|
| Rey key old Schlage lockset | 1/14/2009 |
Q: I have seen your answer to a question about removing a lockset from 9/12/2005 and it seems to be ...
A: If it's a Grade 1 lock it may install differently and would require different steps to remove the ...
|
| Rekeying of a Russwin lock | 1/14/2009 |
Q: I have old Russwin lock tha I want to chagne the cylinder of because it keeps spinning when I put ...
A: You can replace the cylinder as long as it's a standard one. If it's a mortise cylinder, most ...
|
| Rey key old Schlage lockset | 1/14/2009 |
Q: I have seen your answer to a question about removing a lockset from 9/12/2005 and it seems to be ...
A: All Schlage locks that I have dealt with have a retainer hole if not two, one of which is nothing ...
|
| Yale Deadbolt | 1/14/2009 |
Q: Front door Yale deadbolt is stuck in locked (extended) position with the key turniing left and right ...
A: You'll have to remove the lock and manually retract it. If it's a mortise lock you'll need a ...
|
| Schlage Dexter deadbolt will not retract | 1/14/2009 |
Q: We have Schlage dexter deadbolts on all exterior doors of our house. The bolt on the basement door ...
A: The Dexter line of Schlage are the low end models. They may be under warranty so check with Schlage ...
|
| Master pinning a weiser | 1/13/2009 |
Q: I work at a lumber yard in a very rural town and have become the "locksmith" I know how to master ...
A: You can't use a #1 master pin in Weiser, Kwikset, Weslock and some others. The reason is that a #1 ...
|
| How hard to pick a dimple lock? | 1/11/2009 |
Q: After about two minutes of research I've learned that there is a device to pick a barrel lock in ...
A: The video you saw of the Bic pen and the barrel lock was on a bicycle lock. That particular lock ...
|
| How hard to pick a dimple lock? | 1/11/2009 |
Q: After about two minutes of research I've learned that there is a device to pick a barrel lock in ...
A: If you want advice on picking locks I suggest searching the web for sites that allow that. I don't ...
|
| Outside door knob stuck | 1/11/2009 |
Q: I went out to the cabin and the deadbolt unlocked but the door handle seems jammed. I tried turning ...
A: You'll have to force the latch to retract. You can try shimming it with a credit card (one you ...
|
| Kwikset door lock | 1/10/2009 |
Q: we have a question similar to one you've answered before. We recently bought a house that has an ...
A: You'll need to hire a locksmith to open it for you. They can rekey it as well to match your ...
|
| Do Not Duplicate Keys | 1/10/2009 |
Q: I am trying to duplicate a "Do Not Duplicate Key." Places I go to say they would do it except that ...
A: Keys marked as Do Not Duplicate or Do Not Copy are not supposed to be copied and if the locksmith ...
|
| Front Door Entry | 1/10/2009 |
Q: I have a $100 front door entry set with knob on inside, push lever on the outside (with deadbolt). ...
A: Open the door and actuate the thumb piece on the outside. Does the latch retract? If not you'll ...
|
| Jammed 4-door filing cabinet. | 1/10/2009 |
Q: I hope this is the right place to post this question...I have a 4-drawer filing cabinet for hanging ...
A: The bar that connects to the lock may have become disconnected. You'll have to access the bar from ...
|
| master keying (cross pinning?) | 1/9/2009 |
Q: I work at a lumber yard in a very rural town and have become the "locksmith" I know how to master ...
A: The only way to accomplish that is for each tenant to have a key to that one lock. If you tried to ...
|
| Push Button Door Entry | 1/9/2009 |
Q: I have a beauty salon and I want to know what kind of system will allow me to push a button to buzz ...
A: You need an electric strike, push paddle or lever, power supply, button and latch lock. If your ...
|
| Key stuck in Dexter deadbolt on home front door | 1/8/2009 |
Q: I have a Dexter deadbolt on my front door that was installed by our builder 3yrs ago that has gotten ...
A: If you decide to try Lowes or Home Depot they will likely make it worse as they are not trained ...
|
| Key stuck in Dexter deadbolt on home front door | 1/8/2009 |
Q: I have a Dexter deadbolt on my front door that was installed by our builder 3yrs ago that has gotten ...
A: Sorry I couldn't get back to you until the next day. You have already tried everything I would have ...
|
| double cylinder screw cover reomoval (tacks?) | 1/7/2009 |
Q: I am re-keying a house full of Schlage Sienna deadbolts and locksets. I have done all successfully ...
A: I haven't found an easy way to remove those yet. I generally use a small probe and/or screwdriver ...
|
| Privacy lock can be unlocked from outside | 1/7/2009 |
Q: I have installed new Schlage privacy locks. Some of them work ok, but two of them can be unlocked ...
A: Privacy locks can easily be unlocked from the outside with a small screwdriver or a nail. Sometimes ...
|
| Removing old Unican (?) jimmy-proofs | 1/6/2009 |
Q: I looked for answers related to this, but didn't see any yet...a previous owner of our house went ...
A: There are many varieties of security screws so you'll have to get a bit that fits them or cut them ...
|
| dexter lock | 1/6/2009 |
Q: i have an old Dexter lock that i dot off but the handle wont come off so u can get under the beauty ...
A: There should only be one retainer in the slit. Push that in as you pull the handle off. This only ...
|
| schlage dead bolt | 1/5/2009 |
Q: we have done a bit of remodeling moving a door down a new hallway. We removed a Schlage from one ...
A: I'm sorry I missed that important point. There wouldn't be anything preventing the keys from ...
|
| Removal of Double Cylinder Lock | 1/5/2009 |
Q: I have a Kwikset double cylinder deadbolt on the front gate, but where you'd expect the two screws ...
A: That actually sounds like the lock has a shutter. If you insert a key into the inside cylinder and ...
|
| Removal of Double Cylinder Lock | 1/5/2009 |
Q: I have a Kwikset double cylinder deadbolt on the front gate, but where you'd expect the two screws ...
A: I'm not sure what you mean. Does it look like screws are there but something's in the way? Is ...
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| A53 lock function - Lockouts | 1/5/2009 |
Q: I've read in here about the Schlage locks with the A53 function that locks the door by pushing the ...
A: Unfortunately no. Those locks are engineered that way, for what reason I have no idea. I guess the ...
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| How to lock a wood filing cabinet that does not have a lock | 1/5/2009 |
Q: We have a 3 drawer wood filing cabinet in our home office that does not have a lock - it wasn't made ...
A: You'll need a drill and about a 5/8" diameter wood bit as well as a measuring tape and possibly ...
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| How to lock a wood filing cabinet that does not have a lock | 1/5/2009 |
Q: We have a 3 drawer wood filing cabinet in our home office that does not have a lock - it wasn't made ...
A: You can install a cam lock on each drawer: http://www.jmlock.com/uslock-1410-series-cam-lock.aspx ...
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| Door handle problems | 1/5/2009 |
Q: I have three door handles with locks that are not fully opening or closing. They get jammed while ...
A: Do you regularly lubricate the locks? Have they been hit or damaged recently? Lubricate with a ...
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| schlage dead bolt | 1/5/2009 |
Q: we have done a bit of remodeling moving a door down a new hallway. We removed a Schlage from one ...
A: If the key doesn't turn on either side the tailpieces are not installed correctly. Follow the ...
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| Medeco lock | 1/4/2009 |
Q: I recently moved into a new home and I need to change this lock. This is a medeco lock that ...
A: Those ball bearings are to prevent tampering of the lock and are very difficult to remove. The only ...
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| Key Duplicating Machine | 1/4/2009 |
Q: I picked up an ILCO portable key duplicating machine - Dyna-Mite - at an estate sale. It looks new. ...
A: eBay prohibits the sale of key duplicating and code machines on their site because they cannot be ...
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| Welch | 1/3/2009 |
Q: I have an old Welch lock and have not found a way to remove the inside knob. There is only a small ...
A: Is this a mortise lock or a standard one? Mortise locks have spindles which must be aligned ...
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| Yale deadbolt broken | 1/3/2009 |
Q: I have a relatively new Yale deadbolt on my front door that has broken in the locked position. The ...
A: First try pushing, pulling, lifting or pushing down on the door as you try to unlock it, preferably ...
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| schlage dead bolt | 1/3/2009 |
Q: we have done a bit of remodeling moving a door down a new hallway. We removed a Schlage from one ...
A: Remove the deadbolt and try the key in the cylinders while it's out of the door. If it works, you ...
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| key blanks | 1/3/2009 |
Q: i was wondering if you could tell me the most common key blank 70% or more in the usa ,south ...
A: All I know is what is used in the US most often for standard cylinders. I don't deal with ...
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| Security Padlock | 1/2/2009 |
Q: What is the best high-security padlock? I need a lock that is pick and drill resistant, weather ...
A: The best one for what you need is a padlock that will accept a CyberLock cylinder (www.videx.com). ...
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| Locks for rental property | 1/2/2009 |
Q: We have a problem with our tenants changing out our locks & installing their own. This leaves the ...
A: Find a supplier of tamper-resistant screws. You'll need to take a mounting screw from one of your ...
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| Andersen single swing out patio door | 1/2/2009 |
Q: I have an Andersen single swing out patio door which does not have a keyed lock. I cannot get into ...
A: You would need to have a locksmith look at the door and existing hardware to make that ...
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| lock on wooden file cabinet | 1/2/2009 |
Q: my key was in the file cabinet. now the file cabinet is in the open position, key in it... but won't ...
A: I'm not sure what the problem is. I'd have to see the lock in person. Most locks should turn right ...
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| Kwiket plastic gear source? | 1/1/2009 |
Q: I have a vintage 1979 Kwikset exterior handle set that I would like to repair. The plastic rack and ...
A: Your first clue should have been 'plastic'. It's time to replace the lock. Any lock with plastic ...
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| Old Segal Lock | 1/1/2009 |
Q: I have an old Segal Lock (did not need a key to lock the door once opened) that had to be drilled ...
A: Contact a local locksmith or hardware store and ask for a jimmy-proof lock. If the lock you had was ...
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| Rekey two brands to one master | 1/1/2009 |
Q: We have a mixture of Kwikset and Schlage locks in our house. Is it possible for a locksmith to rekey ...
A: Brands are not inter-compatible unless the cylinder can be changed. Most Kwikset and Schlage locks ...
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| Combination padlock | 1/1/2009 |
Q: happy new year! I got a combination padlock from my grandfather, who had been in the States untill ...
A: Most padlocks of that type are clockwise 4 times to clear it, stop on first number. Turn ...
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| Interior door safety keys | 1/1/2009 |
Q: Where can I purchase several "coffee can" style door keys for emergency access to children's ...
A: I think you are referring to emergency keys for privacy locks. A locksmith shop can help you with ...
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| Removing Weiser dead bolt | 1/1/2009 |
Q: I am replacing my front door lock. The old lockset is a Weiser. It was trivial to remove the ...
A: It's hard to see the face of the lock in that photo but here are your options: There are 3 basic ...
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| deadbolt removal | 12/31/2008 |
Q: James I have been reading your Q/A forum and it is very informative. I am trying to remove a double ...
A: There are 3 basic installation types for double cylinder deadbolts: 1: Easy to see mounting screws ...
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| Schlage office door lock | 12/31/2008 |
Q: I have a new office but we got one key. I still have the front door key lock assembly from the old ...
A: It sounds like you have an aluminum frame door with a full pane of glass using an Adams Rite style ...
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| new information | 12/30/2008 |
Q: james. i found a model number on the lockset itself it is 690dl 26d cp. does that help at all??
A: That still should be a Dorian lever. I'm not sure of the function number (690); it seems they may ...
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| Kwikset lever lock | 12/30/2008 |
Q: i just bought two kwikset exterior lever locks and i am trying to key them alike. how in the world ...
A: 405DL 26D tells me it's an entry lever, Delta style, Dull Chrome finish. According to Kwikset the ...
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| Tightening a deadbolt | 12/30/2008 |
Q: I have an extremely loose deadbolt that I've tried to tighten. I've read your previous posts on the ...
A: Are you referring to the bolt or the lock? The bolt should have whatever length screws are needed ...
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| Odd backset-can't find replacement | 12/30/2008 |
Q: My door knob latch broke. I had to open with a screwdriver. I removed latch and discovered a ...
A: I'm not aware of any 6" backset locks. The closest is 5". You'll have to get a door wrap around or ...
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| Kwikset lever lock | 12/30/2008 |
Q: i just bought two kwikset exterior lever locks and i am trying to key them alike. how in the world ...
A: What model do you have? Look at the lever as it comes away from the centerline of the lock. Behind ...
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| Schlage loose handle | 12/30/2008 |
Q: How do I tighten both levers of a Schlage keyed lock? I tightened the screws on the inside plate ...
A: The mounting screws are the only way to tighten the lock to the door. If your levers are still ...
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| Schlage Key-in-Knob | 12/29/2008 |
Q: I have repined Schlage deadbolts and Kwikset deadbolts, as well as Kwikset key-in-knobs, but I'm ...
A: I'd have to see the lock to know how to remove it. You can try contacting Schlage directly as ...
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| Stuck Key | 12/29/2008 |
Q: Putthe key in the front door - it locks the door but it is stuck afterwards and you have to pull ...
A: Check the key for ridges on the rise of a peak (on the cuts). This can cause a key to stick. Also ...
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| Andersen 4000 Patio Door | 12/29/2008 |
Q: I have a andersen 4000 patio door, which I lost the key. I purchsed through them a new ...
A: Most manufacturer's keyways are not interchangeable with each other, this includes Kwikset and ...
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| Dexter Lock | 12/28/2008 |
Q: My son locked his bedroom door with the cat inside. It is a Dexter lock with a push and turn ...
A: It sounds like you have a privacy lock. If the inside locks by a turn action you will need a small ...
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| MAG lock cyclinder replacement | 12/28/2008 |
Q: I have a MAG deadbolt lock with a single cylinder and a thumb knob inside. The lock looks like a ...
A: If you are referring to a rim mounted dead lock, those accept a rim cylinder so you could buy a rim ...
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| Medeco deadbolt | 12/27/2008 |
Q: I have medeco deadbolts on my doors. The gold coloring has come off and I want to replace them with ...
A: The inside of the deadbolt where the key goes is a cover plate. Pry that off. The screws are under ...
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| kwikset smartkey deadbolt cylender repair | 12/27/2008 |
Q: we have a kwikset smartkey system and a reset cradle that when you remove the inner cylinder after ...
A: You'll have to take the locks to a locksmith for repair or contact Kwikset directly for instructions ...
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| Removing Weiser dead bolt | 12/26/2008 |
Q: I am replacing my front door lock. The old lockset is a Weiser. It was trivial to remove the ...
A: Some double cylinder deadbolts (keyed from both sides) have hidden screws. Most of the time they ...
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| pegasus door locks | 12/25/2008 |
Q: How do I take a pegasus front door lock apart? The instructions are unclear. It states: "dismount ...
A: I believe those are European locks so I don't know anything about them. It sounds like what they ...
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| Key pulled cylinder from knob | 12/23/2008 |
Q: We have had this door for 5+ years and 2days ago the cylinder pulled out with the key. The ...
A: What brand or type of lock is it? Is it a regular cylinder or one that's shaped like a figure ...
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| New lockset locks us out Schlage F51 | 12/23/2008 |
Q: After installing our new replacement lockset, I quickly discovered I open the door going from inside ...
A: Schlage locks are designed to be unlocked from the inside at all times regardless of the status of ...
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| Doorknob freezes and won't turn | 12/22/2008 |
Q: We live on the second floor of a house with an outside entrance. In winter, our doorknob begins ...
A: Locks exposed to the elements can have issues like freezing. An awning or some other type of ...
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| Broken door knob | 12/22/2008 |
Q: I have changed door knobs in the past, but those ones were open doors. This is the door to my ...
A: With the lock off of the door, use pliers, hammer and cold chisel to remove the latch mechanism if ...
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| baldwin lockre-keying | 12/21/2008 |
Q: I recently purchased a home and it has exisitng baldwin locks. I have one key that opens the front ...
A: If you are referring to the spring cap, do not remove it. Most of those are impossible to replace. ...
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| door knob removal | 12/19/2008 |
Q: I'm attempting to remove an old door knob to replace with new. It does not have shown screws. Has a ...
A: If that is the inside knob, turn it until you see a different color or hue inside the hole you ...
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| File Cabinet key turns but lock does not pop out | 12/19/2008 |
Q: I have a 30+ year old 4 drawer file cabinet and when I turn the key either way (which I don't ...
A: If the key turns but the lock doesn't pop out, lubricant won't help. You'll need to have the lock ...
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| Deadbolt Removal | 12/19/2008 |
Q: I have a Kwikset deadbolt that I am trying to tighten. It has come loose and it will pull out a ...
A: All Kwikset single cylinder deadbolts with the exception of the Ultra Max line have 2 screws holding ...
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| Baldwin lock, doesn't stay closed. | 12/19/2008 |
Q: The latch on my new Baldwin fron door lock does not secure the door closed. The dead bolt works OK, ...
A: Open the door and push the latch in manually with your finger. Release it. Does it come back out ...
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| Dexter Schlage entry lock | 12/18/2008 |
Q: I moved into my home just over a year ago. The lock was set for the builder but they told me once I ...
A: Is it Dexter or Schlage because those are not the same thing? If it's Dexter replace them. If it's ...
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| exterior door knob | 12/18/2008 |
Q: I have a solid wood french door that was custom cut to fit. it is now a 34 inch door. the problem ...
A: Schlage doesn't make a lock that will fit that. They don't make any latches that will either. You ...
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| master lock | 12/18/2008 |
Q: the master lock 5400d can that be open.i'm a realtor, i have this, all the time and can't open ...
A: You can cut them off but if the bank put them on there and the house is under foreclosure then you ...
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| Entry door handle won't turn | 12/17/2008 |
Q: James: Recently I experienced difficulty in turning the door handle on my entry door, so I can ...
A: Schlage locks generally don't contain plastic parts but if you buy locks from a home center or ...
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| Key Lock door nob on Bed Room Door | 12/17/2008 |
Q: Don't ask why but I have a keyed lock door nob on a bed room door that has come locked shut and we ...
A: It's not uncommon to have a keyed lock on a bedroom door. You'll need a locksmith to pick it open ...
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| Entry door handle won't turn | 12/16/2008 |
Q: James: Recently I experienced difficulty in turning the door handle on my entry door, so I can ...
A: After having the lock removed from the door, use a hammer and cold chisel to force the latch ...
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| frozen door lock | 12/16/2008 |
Q: What is the best way to remove a key that is stuck in a door lock without breaking it? It is ...
A: Your key may have a cut that's too vertical and is catching the pins preventing it from being ...
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| deadbolt won't disengage | 12/16/2008 |
Q: The deadbolt on my workshop door won't retract all the way and allow me to open the door. This ...
A: If you are able to get into the building you can remove the screws for the deadbolt and manually ...
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| Shaw Walker lock | 12/15/2008 |
Q: I have a Shaw Walker metal filing cabinet (4 drawer) that has a "push in" lock at the top right ...
A: You'll need a locksmith to open it for you and they should be able to provide you with a new lock ...
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| How to remove deadbolt lock from Front Door? | 12/15/2008 |
Q: I just bought a new SCHELGE key lock entry set and I need to remove the knob and bolt that is ...
A: You can't remove the bolt until the lock cylinder and thumbturn are removed. Can you attach a photo ...
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| How to remove deadbolt lock from Front Door? | 12/15/2008 |
Q: I just bought a new SCHELGE key lock entry set and I need to remove the knob and bolt that is ...
A: Sorry for the confusion. A double cylinder deadbolt requires a key from both sides of the door but ...
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| How to remove deadbolt lock from Front Door? | 12/15/2008 |
Q: I just bought a new SCHELGE key lock entry set and I need to remove the knob and bolt that is ...
A: Kwikset deadbolts have 3 possible installation methods and reversing those will remove it: 1. ...
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| old-style lock | 12/15/2008 |
Q: We bought an old house and many doors inside have door locks that are mounted on the surface of the ...
A: It sounds like either a surface mounted mortise lock or a night latch of some sort. I'm not sure ...
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| briefcase lock | 12/15/2008 |
Q: I was driving past one of these storage facilities when I noticed someones belongings had been put ...
A: There may be picks available for that type of lock but I've never used one, nor seen one. A ...
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| Replacing old Schlage handleset | 12/15/2008 |
Q: I would like to replace a front door Schlage (I think) handleset made in the 1980's. The deadbolt ...
A: There are many styles of handlesets available. Without seeing the one you have I can't picture it ...
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| key blank numbers | 12/11/2008 |
Q: I dabble with rekeying and making keys (my dad was a locksmith and I have all his equipment) I need ...
A: The KW1 is the most common 5 pin Kwikset key blank. The KW11 replaced the KW10 after the Titan ...
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| removing mortised lockset | 12/10/2008 |
Q: My old Welch brand mortised lockset needs to be removed. How do I get the inside knob off - and the ...
A: Most mortise locks have a removable plate on the door edge and underneath is the set screw for the ...
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| interior door locks | 12/9/2008 |
Q: How can you lock 2 bi fold closet doors which meets in the middle? I have an 11 year old autistic ...
A: I've not seen any locks for bi fold doors. The first thing that comes to mind is a padlock hasp and ...
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| LSDA lever door lock | 12/7/2008 |
Q: I want to exchange a locking with a non-locking LSDA handle. Looks like it should be simple, but ...
A: The side of the lock that's inside the locked area, depress the retainer pin and pull the lever off. ...
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| door knob problem | 12/6/2008 |
Q: I'm a first time homeowner, so this may be a stupid question. I'm having a problem with the door ...
A: After removing the mounting screws you can manually retract the latch, either by turning the part ...
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| schlage locks | 12/6/2008 |
Q: I have 3 exterior doors that have schlage locks that are all keyed the same...one key works in all ...
A: Take your existing key with you when you purchase the new locks and they should be able to key the ...
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| Door latch retraction | 12/5/2008 |
Q: I recently put new door closers on outside screen door. The problem is that the latch will not ...
A: Can you push the latch in with your hand while the door is open? If so, the closer is the issue not ...
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| Hon file cabinet stuck drawer | 12/4/2008 |
Q: The bottom file drawer in my five-drawer vertical HON filing cabinet will not open. When I try to ...
A: You may have something in the drawer that's keeping it from opening. With the one above removed, ...
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| rekeying weiser door locks | 12/3/2008 |
Q: I just bought a house and was given copies of the original key. Unfortunately, the key does is ...
A: 1: I always suggest rekeying a house when you have purchased it because you never know who has ...
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| Skeleton keys | 12/1/2008 |
Q: I live in an old house that all of the locks use skeleton keys and I am trying to find out how I can ...
A: Barrel keys are not widely used any longer so you'll have to call around to your local locksmiths to ...
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| Vending machine lock | 11/29/2008 |
Q: I have an older Pepsi vending machine, with a tubular Chicago 7 pin lock. It worked fine for years, ...
A: Try some WD-40 first. It may be screwed in tight so push on the door as you unlock it. If it's ...
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| Rekeying a deadbolt lock | 11/28/2008 |
Q: James, I am trying to replace a Callan deadbolt lock. I want to order a replacement on the ...
A: You first need to know the keyway of the deadbolt you are replacing. On the key should be some ...
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| remove old handset lock - Kiel | 11/28/2008 |
Q: I'm trying to remove an old Kiel handset lock (maybe frrom 1920's) from my front door. I've removed ...
A: Remove the 2 screws from the door edge plate and slide the assembly out. That is a mortise lock and ...
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| Rekeying and Repinning locks | 11/27/2008 |
Q: James, I work for a local door and hardware company and I am wanting to learn how to rekey and repin ...
A: It's a bad idea to remove the spring cover (the thin piece of metal at the top that you referred ...
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| File Cabinet Keys | 11/19/2008 |
Q: We are a non profit no kill Animal Sanctuary. Someone donated several very nice professional file ...
A: If those numbers are on the locks and not the cabinets, call a local locksmith and give them to ...
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| KW1 and IN3 blanks | 11/18/2008 |
Q: Can an Ilco "IN3" blank and a Kwikset "KW1" be used interchangeably? How will I know which is ...
A: There is a slight difference between the IN3 and KW1 but given the tolerances of Kwikset locks I'm ...
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| Problem getting interior handle off schlage lock | 11/16/2008 |
Q: When I installed a schlage deadbolt on my door I didn't properly line up the pinhole on the interior ...
A: Deadbolts don't have pin holes and I'm not sure why you'd have to remove the handle before removing ...
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| rental unit locks | 11/16/2008 |
Q: I have 20 rental units and am looking to have a master key for all the units. Currently use Kwikset ...
A: Kwikset is simple to rekey and master key. They aren't as secure as Schlage but unless there are ...
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| Changing bathroom door locks | 11/15/2008 |
Q: I am trying to change out my bathroom door lock system but an unable to get disassemble the original ...
A: Looks like the lock is almost out of the door anyway. The rose on that lock looks like it is ...
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| locksmithing business | 11/15/2008 |
Q: Is there any thing that affects business like the economy? Does it ever slow down or do you take it ...
A: In a way the economy affects this business but not as much as other types of businesses. Everyone ...
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| Spin Lockbox Combo Change | 11/14/2008 |
Q: I have an old retro spin lockbox and wanted to change the combination. It is an alphabetical box, ...
A: I'm not sure if this link will work: ...
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| broken door handle | 11/14/2008 |
Q: We have an internal door which is shut and will not open. The door handle turns but nothing happens. ...
A: You'll probably have to destroy the latch from within the hole in the face of the door - where you ...
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| Deadbolt Installation on Hollow Metal Door | 11/13/2008 |
Q: I have several commercial hollow metal doors on which I would like to install deadbolts. (They ...
A: Basically it's the same you just have to use caution when dealing with a hollow door of any kind so ...
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| Schlage keyed entry knobs | 11/13/2008 |
Q: I need to replace 2 13 year old Schlage Orbit keyed entry knobs. The one downstairs only works on ...
A: Schlage locks are sold with C or F keyways, not Falcon. The Schlage F series locks can have the ...
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| Deadbolt Installation on Hollow Metal Door | 11/13/2008 |
Q: I have several commercial hollow metal doors on which I would like to install deadbolts. (They ...
A: Tools Required: 1: Drill 2: 2-1/8" hole saw (or 1-1/2" if the deadbolt can use that) 3: 1" hole saw ...
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| Looking for 2-1/2" strike | 11/13/2008 |
Q: I am planning to replace all of my inside hollow core doors with 6 panel doors. I don't want to ...
A: Don-Jo makes a variety of strikes that should fit, with minor modification to the jamb. You can ...
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| time lock recommendation | 11/12/2008 |
Q: I just sent this question a few minutes ago. I should add that a bypass key would also be helpful - ...
A: T., Key bypass is not available on the 252 and I'm not sure would be available on any safe lock ...
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| time lock recommendation | 11/12/2008 |
Q: I am looking for a very simple time lock. Lock shops I have visited recommend very expensive locks ...
A: T., For safe applications the only one I know of is the Kaba Mas 252. You can't get time control ...
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| Locksmithing buisness | 11/11/2008 |
Q: Will a corr. course give me a good enough start to get picked up by a pro. locksmith and in your ...
A: A correspondence course will hurt any chance you have of becoming an apprentice. Talk to locksmiths ...
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| A lock to fit the key? | 11/10/2008 |
Q: I recently stumbled across a key which I remember was given to me as a present with a pretty little ...
A: Find a locksmith that has been in business a while and take them your key. They may be able to help ...
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| school staff bathroom | 11/10/2008 |
Q: ok, so I put something in the hole of this gold industrial bathroom lock and the handle came ...
A: There should be a hole in the handle or in the trim plate next to the door. You have to insert a ...
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| Schlage Lever Door Locks | 11/8/2008 |
Q: My mother in law has a Schlage Lever Key Lock on her Kitchen door. On the inside lever is a small ...
A: Schlage, along with many other manufacturers, has started using fail safe locks. This means the ...
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| kwikset keyway | 11/7/2008 |
Q: Could you explain to me the difference between KW1 & KW10 keyway? Is there a KW2, KW3, KW4.... or ...
A: Kwikset has a few different ones available. KW1 is the most common and is a 5 pin key. KW10 is a 6 ...
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| function of inside front door knob (lever) | 11/7/2008 |
Q: Just installed new Schlage mechanical front door entry. The kind with dead bolt (w/trim) above a ...
A: I'm looking at the page referencing the handing of the lever. There is a drawing of what they are ...
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| Need to remove a lock. | 11/7/2008 |
Q: I need to remove a commercial lock at our business. The lock is round on two steel doors. But the ...
A: I need more information. I'm not clear what you mean by it's 'round on two steel doors. But the ...
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| General Bolt Locks w/ Screw | 11/7/2008 |
Q: I replaced all the locks on a house with Kwikset smartkey bolts; and from what I understand they're ...
A: Some deadbolts have one screw through each side of the deadbolt for security. This prevents anyone ...
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| Schlage lever lock | 11/6/2008 |
Q: As you can see, I've got the inside handle off- how do I remove the rest of the assembly? I don't ...
A: That should simply slide out. If you look inside the large hole in the door you should see where ...
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| Remove unknown double cylinder deadbolt | 11/4/2008 |
Q: I'm tyring to replace locksets on two doors with a combo pack from Kwikset. House was built late ...
A: Some deadbolts have what look like holes in the inside cylinder housing. Inserting a key and ...
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| Titan Front Doorlock | 11/2/2008 |
Q: We have a front door lock that says titan on the top where the key goes in. If you're looking at ...
A: First I'd recommend checking out Kwikset's FAQ: http://www.kwikset.com/Support/default.aspx# They ...
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| Door Latch | 10/30/2008 |
Q: The past couple years my front door will blow open, especially when sub-zero and winds >30 mph - ...
A: The latches are all the same length except for some commercial locks but that depends on what you ...
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| removing cylinder on baldwin mortise lock | 10/29/2008 |
Q: My front entry lock has started misbehaving. Periodically the handle seems to jam on the inside and ...
A: Mortise locks have a set screw to hold the cylinder in. There is no other mechanical reason for you ...
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| Master key for 60 apartments complex | 10/28/2008 |
Q: I recently purchased a 60 unit apartment complex that have KWIK lock and deadbolts. I would like to ...
A: You'll need: 1: Pin kit; 2: Master key chart; 3: Cut Master keys; 4: Cut User keys; 5: Tweezers; 6: ...
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| replace a 2 key dexter lock on burglar bars | 10/28/2008 |
Q: My key does not always work on the inside gate lock. I would like to get a new 2 key lock for ...
A: I'd suggest an Arrow E60 series deadbolt. The double cylinder version has hidden screws. You'll ...
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| schlage e grip door set | 10/28/2008 |
Q: are there any exterior door e-grip locks that fit a door with one round and one oval bore holes? ...
A: I've not heard of 'e grip' locks. There are no locks that need an oval hole for installation, that ...
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| Baldwin Mortise Cylinder | 10/27/2008 |
Q: I recently installed two mortise locks. everything functions perfectly except for the exterior sides ...
A: Make sure the mortise cylinder is not into the lock too far. I usually thread it in until it stops ...
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| Un Master | 10/27/2008 |
Q: How do I take the master pin out of a Kwikset lock? Please help ASAP.. I need to keep the same key, ...
A: There is no way to know which one is the master pin unless you put your key into the plug along with ...
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| Un Master | 10/27/2008 |
Q: How do I take the master pin out of a Kwikset lock? Please help ASAP.. I need to keep the same key, ...
A: I guess I wasn't clear. Master pins can be in any or all of the chambers depending on the cuts of ...
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| Un Master | 10/27/2008 |
Q: How do I take the master pin out of a Kwikset lock? Please help ASAP.. I need to keep the same key, ...
A: You can't just remove the master pin. A master keyed lock works like this: there are 2 (or more) ...
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| 2 5/8 backset | 10/27/2008 |
Q: First, i am not a locksmith. Just attempting to do some repair work in building. commercial door ...
A: It's unlikely that it can be modified to work as you need. You can always remove it from the door ...
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| Lock options for 3" thick gate | 10/26/2008 |
Q: James. I would appreciate any suggestions you may have for lock set that will work on a 3" gate. ...
A: The 3" kit isn't listed on our site because we try not to have too many parts listed. The kits are ...
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| Cylinder problem with Kwikset #785 | 10/25/2008 |
Q: I am having a problem with a Kwikset #785 deadbolt. When I unlock the deadbolt and turn the key, the ...
A: There are two possible issues. 1. The E clip on the back of the lock is broken or worn out. Get it ...
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| calibrating an Ilco MK2 code cutter | 10/23/2008 |
Q: I have an Ilco Excta MK2 code cutter with the Kwikset die set. I need to cut keys to code for an ...
A: Depths: #1 = .328 #2 = .305 #3 = .282 #4 = .259 #5 = .236 #6 = .213 #7 = .190 Spaces: #1 = .247 #2 ...
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| Multi Apts w/ common entry door | 10/23/2008 |
Q: All Kwickset; 5 apts & common entry door. How to allow common lock to be able to be opened by any ...
A: You would have to key the common door to each of the 5 others and that is not recommended for ...
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| file cabinet lock | 10/23/2008 |
Q: My husband is wanting to make a file cabinet for one of our daughters. We currently have a file ...
A: I'm not aware of that type of setup is available unless you manufacture file cabinets. I suggest a ...
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| Lost Key | 10/21/2008 |
Q: James, I too have a Fulton lock that I have lost a key too. Fortunately I have one key left. Is ...
A: I'm not finding that number referencing anything that will help us find the key blank. I can't find ...
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| Schlage | 10/18/2008 |
Q: I installed a Schalge Plymouth Handleset on our front door. I am having problems while opening the ...
A: It seems as if it may be an alignment issue. Handlesets can be tricky to install so they work ...
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| Schlage | 10/18/2008 |
Q: I installed a Schalge Plymouth Handleset on our front door. I am having problems while opening the ...
A: I'm not sure you did anything wrong. I'd suggest removing the entire lock assembly including the ...
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| Steel Doors w/ no deadbolt hole | 10/17/2008 |
Q: I have a rental unit that is requesting extra safety measures be put on the front and back doors. ...
A: The best option is a deadbolt. A knob or lever will not provide any protection as they are easily ...
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| Master Lock Padlock grand masters? | 10/16/2008 |
Q: I have a few Master Lock #1 padlocks but no keys, will one of these open them or is it too good to ...
A: It's likely that the keys listed on that site are specific to the No. 1 padlocks that they sell. We ...
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| Fulton Keys | 10/16/2008 |
Q: James: I see on your sight that you have counseled others to get a replacement key for a Fulton Lock ...
A: I'm not familiar with Fulton locks so I'm not sure where you saw me help someone with them. You ...
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| house key - master? | 10/15/2008 |
Q: We changed our locks after finding a relative had been entering our home and causing problems. We ...
A: Just a correction, it's Kwikset. Secondly there are no master keys for locks unless the locks were ...
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| tamper proofing the door lock | 10/13/2008 |
Q: What size of screws do you need to replace the assembly screws to a kwikset door knob lock? I want ...
A: I believe they are 1/8" x 32 1-3/8"L. The best way to determine which ones to purchase is to take ...
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| Replacing 20+ year deadbolt | 10/13/2008 |
Q: I recently moved into a house that had a Dexter deadbolt (key outside and inside)on the back door. ...
A: You only need to drill the hole in the edge of the door deeper to get the longer mechanism to fit ...
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| Loose Schlage lock roses | 10/12/2008 |
Q: I have installed 3 Schlage A-series Storage locks in my condo building. The basic lock and knobs ...
A: You can bed the spring a bit but if you move it to much or too often it may break off. Bend it ...
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| Can I rekey a Defiant lock without the key? | 10/12/2008 |
Q: I do a lot of Kwikset rekeying and have a Kwikset rekey kit. The Defiant locks seem to be very ...
A: I'm not sure why you would want to rekey that. You'd be better off buying a Schlage and throwing ...
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| Improving security of double doors | 10/11/2008 |
Q: You resume looks impressive. Maybe you can help me out here. Virtually every exterior door in my ...
A: 1. The locking pins are designed for residential use and abuse. You'd need to change them to ...
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| baldwin key | 10/11/2008 |
Q: I have four locks on my house which take the same key. I have two keys that will open all the locks. ...
A: I'm surprised that a locksmith would make you key copies from those that do work and the copies ...
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| Locked armoire - missing key | 10/10/2008 |
Q: James, I am thinking of purchasing an old oak bureau/armoire in beautiful condition. There's only ...
A: Sometimes furniture locks can be opened with a National D8890 key. Contact locksmiths in your area ...
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| Ideal Security lock | 10/9/2008 |
Q: I have an Ideal door lock with a handle attached to the key hole.I believe its a dead bolt and its ...
A: Painting the lock may have caused the problem or it may not be installed properly. Those locks must ...
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| 3 drawer filing cabinet | 10/8/2008 |
Q: I have a 3 drawer filing cabinet with a single lock. I lost my key and tried to open it using a ...
A: Paper clips may work in the movies but they don't do well in real life. Insert a small drill bit ...
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| gate lock question | 10/8/2008 |
Q: We have an iron entrance gate in front of our house. We are getting ready to rent it and were told ...
A: Your realtor is correct. In most areas a double cylinder lock is against life-safety codes and you ...
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| Lock | 10/7/2008 |
Q: I have been having difficulty with unlocking a back door with my key. Today the door locked and I ...
A: You said you tried putting WD40 into the lock. Were you using the straw? Did you spray it into the ...
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| Loose | 10/6/2008 |
Q: My father (bless his soul) installed a Kwikset single cylinder handleset(Hawthorne Series 800)on my ...
A: I'm not clear on what part is loose. The handleset is held in place by 2 screws that go through the ...
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| Harloc door set | 10/4/2008 |
Q: I have the dubious honor of having Harloc nonlocking locksets in all the interior doors in my home. ...
A: Photos would help. I've not worked on Harloc enough to know what to tell you without seeing the ...
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| Emtek keyed lockset - frozen exterior knob | 10/4/2008 |
Q: The lockset has been removed and lubricated with graphite and WD40. The exterior knob did one or two ...
A: Remove the lock and take it to a locksmith. They can clean it and get it to work. You have mixed ...
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| lsda knob lockset | 10/4/2008 |
Q: How do you remove the inside knob on this lockset?
A: Insert a small probe into the small hole on the side of the interior knob and press as you pull the ...
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| antique mortise locks | 10/3/2008 |
Q: i have the old skeleton key mortise locks in a house. i need to provide secure locks or bolts on ...
A: Kwikset makes a modernization kit for that type of lock cut out. It's 2 plates, available in long ...
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| Rekeying a defiant lock | 10/2/2008 |
Q: I'm handling foreclosed homes in my area and have been doing the rekeying myself. I have had a ...
A: The problem is that you are using a junk lock that I wouldn't even wish upon my worst enemy. And ...
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| Schlage deadbolt | 10/2/2008 |
Q: I have read the answers about the covered screws by tacks and the hex nut locking the cyclinder but ...
A: There are only 3 methods for installing or removing deadbolts that are keyed on both sides of the ...
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| REPLACEMENT LOCK | 10/1/2008 |
Q: I HAVE A YORK 2 DRAWER FIREPROOF CABINET WITH A SARGENT & GREENLEAF LOCK. I NEED TO KNOW WHERE I CAN ...
A: You need to contact S&G, get the part number, then figure out where the best place to buy it is. ...
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| REPLACEMENT LOCK | 9/30/2008 |
Q: I HAVE A YORK 2 DRAWER FIREPROOF CABINET WITH A SARGENT & GREENLEAF LOCK. I NEED TO KNOW WHERE I CAN ...
A: First search the manufacturer's website for what you had: http://www.sargentandgreenleaf.com/ Once ...
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| removing a deadbolt lock from the door | 9/30/2008 |
Q: I need to replace a schlage deadbolt lock. I can't remove the old deadbolt lock from the door since ...
A: If your deadbolt has a removable plate around the bolt: 1. Remove the faceplate from the edge of the ...
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| key in knob lock hard to get key in /out | 9/28/2008 |
Q: It has rained for 3 days and the past two days its been very hard to get the key into the keyhole as ...
A: Spray WD40 into the key hole and let it drain out a bit then insert your key and pull it out. Wipe ...
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| Debris in entry lock | 9/27/2008 |
Q: I feel I need to remove the key cylinder from an entry door lock to clear debris that prohibits me ...
A: That depends on the make and model of the lock. If you do remove it, it wouldn't be a good idea to ...
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| Sargent door locks | 9/27/2008 |
Q: I have several Sargent 6 closet and passage locks that are in need of repair. It seems the metal ...
A: Visit this link: http://www.sargentlock.com/file_broker.php?document_id=5023 Or check out Sargent's ...
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| replacing door locks | 9/27/2008 |
Q: I am in the process of changing door locks. My front door has a lock that you use a key with on the ...
A: I need more information. Do you have photos? If so, post them online somewhere and send me the ...
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| Sargent Entry Lock | 9/26/2008 |
Q: Greetings, A friend asked me if I could tell him how to get the inside handle off his Sargent entry ...
A: There should be a retainer pin in the knob. Depress it and pull the inside knob off. Pry the trim ...
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| Locksmith Schools | 9/25/2008 |
Q: I would like to know if you can recommend a good locksmith school that offers courses I can study ...
A: I took the Foley Belsaw course and found it informative for the purposes of knowing how locks work, ...
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| 2" Diameter Closet Doors | 9/25/2008 |
Q: Need to replace hardware on closet doors. They only have 2" diameter holes cut. (older house) Would ...
A: I haven't seen any that can fit into a 2" hole. Any that are, are probably not made very well and ...
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| Locks that change when new key is inserted | 9/25/2008 |
Q: My son-in-law was told by a contractor that, when he inserts a new key into each lock in his new ...
A: This is called construction keying. The locks are keyed using standard lock pins in addition to ...
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| Broken Atrium Lock Removal | 9/23/2008 |
Q: We just bought a house that has an Atrium Lock brand lock on the patio door. The lock is completely ...
A: Try lifting or pushing down on the door as you turn the key. Also try pushing or pulling on the ...
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| Lock won't allow me to shut door without slamming it! | 9/22/2008 |
Q: We've just moved into a new flat and although the lock opens fine with the key, when you want to ...
A: The bevel of the latch may be hitting the strike plate in the wrong place. Close the door until the ...
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| front door lock | 9/22/2008 |
Q: I had a new door and knob installed two weeks ago. It worked fine till yesterday. Now I can't lock ...
A: It sounds like a defective lock. Depending on the manufacturer and model it may be under warranty ...
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| Removing Door Lock | 9/18/2008 |
Q: I’m trying to remove a cylinder lock from my front door which is made out of aluminium, the door is ...
A: The set screw should be very small, about 1/8" diameter or so and have either a flat slot or an ...
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| Sliding glass door lock but can not unlock | 9/15/2008 |
Q: I have a 'D'shaped handle with the thumb lock on my sliding door. It has locked in place and I can ...
A: Insert your screwdriver and use locking pliers to turn it the direction opposite of when it was ...
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| Garage door handle stuck | 9/14/2008 |
Q: My garage door handle is stuck at about 45 degrees. I can put the key in and turn the key 180 ...
A: You'll have to remove and replace the lock. You shouldn't be able to turn your key that far which ...
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| removing tital lever set lock | 9/13/2008 |
Q: I have a 15 year old front door Titan lever lock set that works but hangs loose on the door. Is ...
A: You need to tighten it up. Visit the Kwikset help site: ...
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| Weiser Lock Rekey Handleset | 9/11/2008 |
Q: I recently purchased a home and it has an old Weiser lock handleset on the front door. It is very ...
A: The mechanism of the deadbolt may not work unless you use the same brand and model. The finish is a ...
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| Weiser Lock Rekey Handleset | 9/9/2008 |
Q: I recently purchased a home and it has an old Weiser lock handleset on the front door. It is very ...
A: Remove the deadbolt and take it to a locksmith to have them rekey it. They don't need the whole ...
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| Rekeying a Schlage without the old key | 9/9/2008 |
Q: I have a Schlage entry lock set. Pretty sure it is a Plymouth, but it is a C key for sure. I have ...
A: You need a key or you need to pick it. The back of the cylinder on Schlage locks are designed to ...
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| Spring Covers | 9/7/2008 |
Q: I was attempting to re-key a Schlage deadbolt. As I was pushing in the plug follower a couple of the ...
A: Removing the spring cap is never a good idea unless you already have a replacement one. A locksmith ...
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| Old interior lock not coming off | 9/7/2008 |
Q: I've read all the questions people have had on how to get their knobs off and I can't seem to make ...
A: Once you have the screws out of one handle, turn it counter-clockwise to unscrew it from the ...
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| How do I remove a cabinet lock | 9/6/2008 |
Q: I have a Steelcase 4 drawer file cabinet with a Chicago Lock stamped S100. The new locksmith made ...
A: Most of those locks have a clip on the back, inside the cabinet. Remove the top drawer then reach ...
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| multi keys & padlock | 9/6/2008 |
Q: we as a neighborhood are looking to install a heavy duty (unknown yet, suggestions appreciated) ...
A: If you are looking for a high security padlock then Multlock may be the answer, although I don't ...
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| Residential Handleset | 9/6/2008 |
Q: I have a handleset but the backset is missing. How do I determine the manufacturer? There is no mfg ...
A: I'm not sure what you mean by the 'backset is missing'. The backset is the measurement from the ...
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| A Harloc lock in my front door | 9/6/2008 |
Q: This morning I could not unlock my door. It seemed as if the lock was jammed. I took apart the lock ...
A: You need a locksmith to help you reinstall that unless you can remove the lock again and reinstall ...
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| secretary lock | 9/5/2008 |
Q: Help please, I have an old secretary desk with a skelton key. The key is stuck inside and will not ...
A: You can try to remove it yourself but it may be best to get a locksmith to do it so you don't damage ...
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| Getting into the business? | 9/5/2008 |
Q: My name is David. I am a new father of two children. I have been in the mortgage industry for five ...
A: Congratulations on being sober for seven years. Stay that way for your children if not just for ...
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| Keying a Schlage Lock to a Baldwin Key | 9/3/2008 |
Q: If the balwin key has an "O3" or an 03, can a schlage lock be keyed the same? Thanks!
A: Most of the time a Baldwin and Schlage key are interchangeable so one can fit into the other. If ...
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| 2 problems with removing a lock | 8/27/2008 |
Q: Just moved into a new apartment and was trying to remove a lock so I can bring it to a locksmith ...
A: Sometimes the threads on those cylinders get stripped and will cause the first issue. You have to ...
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| Atrium Lock | 8/27/2008 |
Q: I am trying to replace the lock body, but realized I need to remove the 'lock' 1st before I can ...
A: So you have removed the set screw from the edge of the door? It won't slide out until the cam is ...
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| Removing a Schlage lever assembly | 8/27/2008 |
Q: Hullo! I am trying to remove a Schlage lever-style (no lock) door knob from a door. I've removed ...
A: If you look closely at the center part there is a nut called a King's Crown. Remove that and the ...
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| Schlage passage set removal | 8/27/2008 |
Q: I can see the hole at the base of the knob but can not seem to release handle. Does the handle have ...
A: There should be 2 screws on one side of the lock. Remove those and the lock will come off of the ...
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| storage shed | 8/26/2008 |
Q: I built a storage shed and the door is 2x4 frame 1 1/2" thick with 1/2" plywood on the back for ...
A: The only locks that can go to that thickness are mortise locks and I doubt you'll be able to use one ...
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| schlage door handle/lock | 8/24/2008 |
Q: I just bought a couple of nice used doors that have what I'm guessing are hotel door handle/locks. ...
A: If you can remove the inside lever, remove the trim piece that's behind it (the rose). Under that ...
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| schlage front door lock | 8/24/2008 |
Q: I have a schlage front door lock with a long handle on the outside. i just replaced the interior ...
A: Your screws are too tight or the latch mechanism is worn out. If loosening the screws doesn't help, ...
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| Outside Gate deadbolt | 8/23/2008 |
Q: Old iron gate deadbolt. No keys when purchased house. Want to remove and replace with new exterior ...
A: That lock requires a key to remove. On the photo you posted it shows 2 holes that are to the left ...
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| Key Broken in the Lock and door left in the lock position | 8/22/2008 |
Q: In my condo the patio door has a hinged door and is equipped with interlock lock # P84031-00. The ...
A: I'm not familiar with that brand but if it's what I think it is you can't use a different type of ...
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| padlocks | 8/22/2008 |
Q: I'm thrilled i found this site and thanks for taking the time to even read my question, let alone ...
A: The ones that are open can easily have the cylinder removed and replaced by a locksmith. The ones ...
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| Old hidden lock mechanisms | 8/21/2008 |
Q: I have been looking for designs/mechanisms for old/historical gate "locks." I say "locks" because I ...
A: The only thing that comes to mind is an article on our website that talks about old locks, and I do ...
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| Electric Lock | 8/21/2008 |
Q: I wanted to know if you knew where to buy or even how to build a switch in which you use a key like ...
A: http://compx.com/index.html I've looked over their instructions for that item but it doesn't show ...
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| Shaw Walker 3 drawer file cabinet | 8/20/2008 |
Q: We have a Shaw Walker file cabinet that a locksmith had drilled out before. It got locked again. ...
A: There should be a bar just inside the cabinet behind the hole that was left by the cylinder. If you ...
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| Electric Lock | 8/20/2008 |
Q: I wanted to know if you knew where to buy or even how to build a switch in which you use a key like ...
A: The CompX 4073 may work for you. It's a 7 pin tubular key switch lock. It can operate at 125VAC or ...
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| Key locked inside | 8/19/2008 |
Q: On my doors in my basement i have locks that lock once you turn the switch (kind of like a push ...
A: You need a locksmith to pick it open for you. A locksmith has the experience needed to pick a lock. ...
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| Postal Boxes | 8/19/2008 |
Q: We have two postal boxes with flimsy aluminum backs that hang on the rear of the boxes (50 boxes). ...
A: I'm sorry but I need more information. There are many post office box manufacturers and many, many ...
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| Coin-Op Laundry? | 8/19/2008 |
Q: One of your responses just helped me with a vintage door I'm working on, so thank you! I'm not sure ...
A: Tubular locks, which I think you have, are hard to service, even with the right tools and knowledge. ...
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| deadbolt issue | 8/17/2008 |
Q: Just installed a different deadbolt yesterday and had no problem locking it from the outside, but ...
A: The tailpiece has become disengaged from the back of the key cylinder. It's still connected to the ...
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| Titan front door handle | 8/16/2008 |
Q: I wish to replace my old Titan front door handle/dead bolt combination. Are Titan units still ...
A: Titan is no longer made. It was manufactured by Kwikset and they now call its replacement UltraMax. ...
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| Dexter Door Knob Lock | 8/15/2008 |
Q: We have some Dexter door knobs with a tiny hole on the outside and a twist lock on the inside. Our ...
A: Sometimes that type of lock will unlock with a 'push', other times it needs to be turned to unlock ...
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| Replacing Old Schlage Deadbolt | 8/15/2008 |
Q: I want to replace an old Schlage deadbolt which is probably 18 to 20 years old. I removed the old ...
A: As I previously stated, the minimum is 1-1/2" diameter for every deadbolt unless you can find one ...
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| old skeleton key lock with buttons on edge of door | 8/14/2008 |
Q: I've got an old house that was built in 1917. Our front door has gotten locked two times in the ...
A: On new style mortise locks (the lock you have is a mortise lock), the toggle buttons are to keep the ...
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| Replacing Old Schlage Deadbolt | 8/14/2008 |
Q: I want to replace an old Schlage deadbolt which is probably 18 to 20 years old. I removed the old ...
A: Actually the industry standards are 1-1/2" or 2-1/8". Most deadbolts can fit into a hole that's ...
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| old skeleton key lock with buttons on edge of door | 8/14/2008 |
Q: I've got an old house that was built in 1917. Our front door has gotten locked two times in the ...
A: You're going to have to kick it in or call a locksmith. I'd suggest replacing the lock immediately ...
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| Keys lost for locked mortice lock | 8/13/2008 |
Q: I have a door which has been locked using a chubb mortice lock. Unfortunately the keys have been ...
A: You'll have to get a locksmith to pick it open. A master key would only be available for it if one ...
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| disasemble of handle | 8/13/2008 |
Q: We just bought a new home, and the Realtor left his key pad locked around the handle of the front ...
A: You need the Realtor to remove the box. You could insert your key into the outside knob, turn it, ...
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| Automatic Locks | 8/13/2008 |
Q: I just have a quick question I have guests who come over a lot that have keys to my place ...
A: It sounds like you know what you need. I'd suggest a Schlage gatelatch as it has a 9/16" throw and ...
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| Schlage Lock --inside handle | 8/13/2008 |
Q: We successfully installed Schlage deadbolt and handle locks to the 7 exterior doors of our first ...
A: Unfortunately no. Schlage, along with other manufacturers, are now making their knobs and levers ...
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| Andersen - Frenchwood Hinged Door | 8/13/2008 |
Q: I have a - 3 Point Active Lock Mechanism on my Andersen - Frenchwood Hinged Door. The deadbolt ...
A: The safest option is to contact a locksmith and have them open it for you, or you could contact ...
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| sesamee lock reset | 8/12/2008 |
Q: I read how to reset the combination but its not working. I do not have the tool so I'm trying to ...
A: I've never changed one of those but it appears that the change tool has a flat tapered tip. A ...
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| Weiser Door Knob | 8/9/2008 |
Q: How do you remove the lock set from the knob without the key. ANSWER: Hello Thom, Depress the ...
A: Well I'm confused then because the 'lock set' as you described is the entire assembly. The cylinder ...
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| Padlock | 8/8/2008 |
Q: I am looking to purchase 6 rekeyable padlocks. Weiser Lock made a padlock years ago. It was a # 955 ...
A: There are many padlocks available that are rekeyable, it just depends on what type of key and ...
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| Wardrobe key missing | 8/8/2008 |
Q: During my move, the movers lost the key to my wardrobe. I have picked the lock to open it, but have ...
A: You can try contacting a locksmith shop in your area to see if they have a National Lock Company ...
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| how do i tighten a door lever with no visible screws? | 8/7/2008 |
Q: i looked at your other questions and the one from 3/08 matches mine. i have a commercial door lever ...
A: I don't keep track of my past answers and I can't search like you can. If the answer didn't help ...
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| Deadlatch stuck in door. | 8/7/2008 |
Q: We are trying to replace the doorknob on a bedroom door We managed to get the knobs out, but the ...
A: That type of latch is called a drive-in style. From the large hole in the face of the door insert a ...
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| disassembly of vintage door lock | 8/7/2008 |
Q: I need help! My husband is pounding away at this old door lock to get it off and I am sure it is ...
A: Remove the plate on the edge of the door. There should be some set screws in the knobs, remove ...
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| Front door dead bolt | 8/6/2008 |
Q: My front door dead bolt has been installed 20 years and is black from sun. Desire to install new ...
A: Where you see the plugs should be tacks. If they are below the surface they aren't tacks, it's ...
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| Dexter closet doorknob removal | 8/6/2008 |
Q: I am trying to replace some closet doorknob sets. They are Dexter and are probably at least 30 years ...
A: Most of those that I have dealt with have a retainer on the inside knob. Once depressed the knob ...
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| keylock 98at | 8/5/2008 |
Q: can I use this lock for my storefront door. I need a biometric lock for my storefront door. Please ...
A: You'll have to be more specific. I'm not familiar with that lock number. Who makes it? Do you ...
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| finding a replacement lock | 8/5/2008 |
Q: Hope you can help. I need to replace a lock on a cabinet because we don't have the key. However, ...
A: I've looked around as much as I can but can't find anything that is even close to that. Hon, ...
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| slant top desk locked once but won't unlock | 8/4/2008 |
Q: I refinished this old desk last year, and it never had a key to the lock, and it was never locked. ...
A: You can try a hairpin. Those locks are usually easy to bypass. I'd also try holding the key at ...
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| Shorter door throw needed | 8/4/2008 |
Q: We have several sets of exterior French doors that were custom made and the operating door stile is ...
A: A deadbolt with a 2" backset should work on those since most are designed for that. ...
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| Ideal Security type locks | 8/3/2008 |
Q: I have seen deadbolt locks that had a hinge type deadbolt on the inside of the jam. Does anyone ...
A: I think you are referring to a 'jimmy-proof' lock. Those are also known as rim deadbolts. Segal is ...
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| deadbolt lock | 7/28/2008 |
Q: our keys were stolen so we had an emergency locksmith come out to let us into our home, but he had ...
A: The inside thumbturn should have a piece hiding under the lip of the thumbturn piece. It may be a ...
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| door lock | 7/20/2008 |
Q: my front entry door lock has locked completely. We are unable to open it from the inside or outside ...
A: Remove the screws from the inside trim / knob and the lock should come apart. You'll then have to ...
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| Job box lock out | 7/18/2008 |
Q: I'v e managed to lock my job box and lose the key! Hurray! If your not familiar with job boxes they ...
A: I can't reveal lock bypass methods in a public forum. You need the locksmith to open it for you. ...
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| HON file cabinet won't lock | 7/18/2008 |
Q: I have a four drawer HON metal file cabinet that won't lock. It was fine a few months ago, but ...
A: Make sure the drawers are all the way in before trying to lock it. Sometimes if the drawers don't ...
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| broken knob lock | 7/18/2008 |
Q: My daughter pushed the knob lock button and closed the door to our guest room. I have tried to ...
A: Sometimes locks like that need a small flat head screwdriver to turn the inside piece. Other locks ...
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| safety deposit box key | 7/18/2008 |
Q: we have a key that has been identified as a safety deposit box key. the owner is deceased. how do ...
A: Unfortunately I don't think it's going to be easy since there are usually no identifying marks on ...
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| inspection | 7/18/2008 |
Q: New to the inspection of houses. My promblem come in when i go to a house to change lock and the ...
A: I can't reveal lock bypass methods over a public forum. Contact a locksmith in your area for that ...
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| stuck dead bolt lock | 7/17/2008 |
Q: I have an outside door - the dead bolt lock will not withdraw no matter which way you turn it. The ...
A: Try lifting the door as you turn the key. You may have to push or pull as you lift. The best ...
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| replacing a knob | 7/13/2008 |
Q: I rent an old house and need to replace a doorknob. The hole for the bolt is too small to fit a ...
A: If your lease specifies that you are responsible if a break-in occurs, hire a locksmith to enlarge ...
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| SFIC cores: How secure are they? | 7/11/2008 |
Q: I read on Matt Blaze's website that "Unauthorized removal of an SFIC core can represent a more ...
A: Having one of the keys to the lock will tell you what the other key or keys are. Decoding any lock ...
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| SFIC cores: How secure are they? | 7/11/2008 |
Q: I read on Matt Blaze's website that "Unauthorized removal of an SFIC core can represent a more ...
A: Since IC cores have multiple shear lines that are created to allow a control key to insert or remove ...
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| My doorknob lock is stuck | 7/11/2008 |
Q: I have an ALBA lock on my door, the type of lock you turn the doorknob to unlock (and you lock with ...
A: It's hard to see from the photos but it looks like a privacy lock. Privacy locks are generally used ...
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| deadbolt | 7/10/2008 |
Q: Is there a way to add a dead bolt to the inside only of an exterior door for added security? We ...
A: Schlage makes a door bolt which is a one-sided deadbolt lock. Inside thumbturn, no outside trim. ...
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| Mount a strike plate for a deadbolt in a stell door | 7/9/2008 |
Q: I just had a non-locksmith replace the deadbolt on my steel door that has a foam core. As with the ...
A: The strike plate goes on the door jamb, not the door so unless your frame is metal you can mortise ...
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| Pocket door lock in Victorian house | 7/8/2008 |
Q: there's a gorgeous ornate lock on the pocket doors of our Victorian but no key. I was wondering if ...
A: You'll need a locksmith in your area that is familiar with old style locks. Not everyone can make ...
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| schlage lockset | 7/7/2008 |
Q: I have four lever-style door locks but no keys! While they are not interchangeable cores, one of ...
A: If what you have is a commercial lever lock you'll need a key or someone to pick the cylinder to ...
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| Norwalk Lock Co. Mortise Lockset | 7/7/2008 |
Q: This is the original set installed in 1927 and after refinishing the exterior hardware, I screwed ...
A: If you have the other set screw you can carefully remove it and find a replacement for the one that ...
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| backset choice | 7/7/2008 |
Q: I bought a deadbolt to install on an 1930's era front door that never had one. I see that it has an ...
A: You would use the same backset that any existing hardware has on the same door, if possible. ...
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| mortise lock replacement cylinder? | 7/6/2008 |
Q: i just moved into a new (old) home and am upgrading the locks. i put kwikset smartkey locks into ...
A: It's possible that the videos are faked (you listed the same link twice but I'm aware of them ...
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| Loose deadbolt trim | 7/6/2008 |
Q: I have a one-way Kwikset deadbolt that works fine. However, over the last 4 years the trim on both ...
A: Most trims on deadbolts is designed to spin freely. This prevents someone from grabbing it with a ...
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| mortise lock replacement cylinder? | 7/6/2008 |
Q: i just moved into a new (old) home and am upgrading the locks. i put kwikset smartkey locks into ...
A: Medeco M3 would probably be the best to prevent bumping and picking. Only certified locksmiths can ...
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| Unican pushbutton Model 2015-26d-41 | 7/5/2008 |
Q: I have a customer with this lock and they have lost the control key. Bought a key off e-bay that ...
A: Most of the Simplex (Unican) locks use the same key to access the combination changing area and that ...
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| Security screen door | 7/5/2008 |
Q: I am attempting to remove an ugly security screen door. The tool I bought at Home Depot to fit over ...
A: I'm not sure what type of security bolts you have. If you have one-way screws, I'd recommend a ...
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| Schlage L9000 series lock | 7/5/2008 |
Q: I cannot uninstall Schlage L9473 lock. I can take out the key cylinder, but I cannot take out the ...
A: The inside knob requires a spanner wrench. Turn counter-clockwise to remove then remove the trim ...
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| Yale Doorknob | 7/4/2008 |
Q: I recently moved into a home and in one room I have two doors with yale doorknobs, one has a lock ...
A: If you can remove the inside knob you can get to the mounting screws. They are under the trim ...
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| Yale door lock | 7/4/2008 |
Q: I have a Yale door handle lock combination and I estimated it is more tha 50 years old. On the ...
A: That sounds like a mortise lock. 1. Remove the screws from the plate on the edge of the door; 2. ...
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| mortise lock replacement cylinder? | 7/4/2008 |
Q: i just moved into a new (old) home and am upgrading the locks. i put kwikset smartkey locks into ...
A: The words "Kwikset" and "High Security" are not words that are normally used in the same sentence. ...
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| handle shank or latch reverse | 7/3/2008 |
Q: I have a Kwikset entry set (800SN LIP 11P RCAL RCS BBPKG) which opens inward - hinges on the right. ...
A: I contacted Kwikset directly because the part number you gave wasn't enough for me to find what I ...
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| handle shank or latch reverse | 7/3/2008 |
Q: I have a Kwikset entry set (800SN LIP 11P RCAL RCS BBPKG) which opens inward - hinges on the right. ...
A: First of all the latch can go in either way without changing anything on it. Secondly I need more ...
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| Older Dexter Handset | 7/3/2008 |
Q: I hope that you or someone reading this might be able to help me with my problem. I am trying to ...
A: Removing the latch will require you to remove the 2 screws around it first then remove the knob ...
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| mortisse or lori deadbolt locks | 7/2/2008 |
Q: I saw where you answered questions about this before. My sister's home was broken into and they ...
A: If you can't open the door you can't remove the cylinders. You have to remove the plate on the edge ...
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| schlage L series lock | 7/1/2008 |
Q: I need to rekey Schlage L series modle: 9-40-JLM 01N 630 lock. But I cannot take out the cyclnder. ...
A: If the screw fell inside the lock you need to remove it or it will cause the lock to malfunction. ...
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| Schlage - Reusing Single Cylinder Deadbolt Lock | 7/1/2008 |
Q: Is it possible to re-use a Schlage single cylinder residential deadbolt lock on another exterior ...
A: Deadbolts are not handed, meaning that can be installed on either left or right hand applications. ...
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| deadbolt problems | 7/1/2008 |
Q: i lost the key for this bolted door. i don't care if i ruin the lock, I'll just replace it or leave ...
A: I cannot divulge lock bypass information to the general public and this is a public forum. If I ...
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| 2 inch setback | 6/30/2008 |
Q: I have a 25 year old atrium door with a 2 inch setback. I can't find a replacement knob (preferably ...
A: You will have a difficult time finding a 2" backset knob or lever but a deadbolt will be easier. ...
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| key wont turn | 6/30/2008 |
Q: My friend left on vacation and left me to feed and groom his cat while hes gone,i locked the doors ...
A: Call a locksmith to get you in and get your friend to reimburse you. They bottom lock may use a ...
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| PVC BACK DOOR LOCK | 6/29/2008 |
Q: KEY THE DOOR IS OPEN AND I HAVE UNDONE THE SCREW AT THE LOCK BUT THE LOCK IS NOT COMMING OUT SEEMS ...
A: You have to turn the thumbturn to get the cam to align with the slot so you can pull the cylinder ...
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| Child Safety Help!!! | 6/27/2008 |
Q: Here's a little brainteaser for you. I have a 4 year old Downs Syndrome boy that is the only child ...
A: I had to consult with a co-worker on this because of the complicated situation but I think we have ...
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| Larson Storm Door Handle Hardware | 6/26/2008 |
Q: I'm about to install a Larson storm door and it appears that the storm door handle hardware is ...
A: There's not really any other options available. You could relocate the hardware on the main door ...
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| schlage L series lock | 6/24/2008 |
Q: I need to rekey Schlage L series modle: 9-40-JLM 01N 630 lock. But I cannot take out the cyclnder. ...
A: Shen, The Schlage L series lock is a mortise lock. The only way to access mortise lock cylinders ...
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| Schlage deadbolt double keyed | 6/24/2008 |
Q: I have a Schlage deadbolt lock on my back door that has key on both sides. I use the key from the ...
A: The two screws that go through the inside cylinder into the outside cylinder that hold the lock onto ...
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| Andersen Sliding Door | 6/23/2008 |
Q: Currently the door can only be locked from the inside. Is it possible to retro-fit so that it can be ...
A: You would need to get a locksmith to look at the current lock while it's on the door to determine if ...
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| Schlage deadbolt double keyed | 6/22/2008 |
Q: I have a Schlage deadbolt lock on my back door that has key on both sides. I use the key from the ...
A: Remove the screws that mount the lock to the door. On the back of the one side that has the issue ...
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| Stuck deadbolt | 6/21/2008 |
Q: I have a kwikset (1 side keyed) deadbolt in a steel security door that is stuck. The door itself is ...
A: The issue is with the bolt mechanism that's currently in the door. It may be completely worn out or ...
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| stuck deadbolt | 6/21/2008 |
Q: I have a swinging deck door (I think its an atrium or french door?) with a stuck dead bolt. I dont ...
A: You'll want a locksmith to inspect the lock before any attempt is made to repair or remove it. ...
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| removing deadbolt | 6/19/2008 |
Q: Help! I am trying to remove a kwickset deadbolt (keyed on both sides). I have removed the screws, ...
A: The position of the bolt will not affect the removal. Is there paint on the door? Sometimes the ...
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| Kwikset Deadbolt Key problem | 6/19/2008 |
Q: I have a double cylinder Kwikset thta has a problem: the key turns the bolt easily, but it is very ...
A: Make sure the keys don't have a backward ridge on the cuts. Run your finger across the cuts from ...
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| schlage L series lock | 6/18/2008 |
Q: I need to rekey Schlage L series modle: 9-40-JLM 01N 630 lock. But I cannot take out the cyclnder. ...
A: Remove the plate on the edge of the door where the latch is. You will then see 2 screws, one on the ...
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| Lost Key | 6/18/2008 |
Q: I have a storage unit and one of the pad locks is a discuss security lock. I can't find my key for ...
A: Open your local yellow pages and look under Locks & Locksmiths. Pick a locksmith shop and call them ...
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| Locksets on Andersen Patio Doors | 6/17/2008 |
Q: I have several Andersen Patio doors with the locksets that were supplied by Andersen. I would like ...
A: Generally Anderson uses Schlage keyways so any Schlage lock will work. The best way to tell is to ...
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| Deadlock stuck-door wont unlock | 6/16/2008 |
Q: My back door lock has been stiff for a number of years. usually the nack to get it open is to lift ...
A: Remove the lock by removing the mounting screws from the inside then manually retract the latch, ...
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| upside down keyways | 6/15/2008 |
Q: Just went on my first call and it didn't go too well.The keyway was upside down and I couldn't pick ...
A: Those can be harder to pick since the chambers will collect debris easier but the best thing for you ...
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| any other way to lock a door | 6/14/2008 |
Q: I have a hollow door with a locking knob that cannot be removed and is easy to pick. What other way ...
A: There are locks available for the same cut outs that are pick resistant. You can find those at most ...
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| good quality locks for residential property | 6/13/2008 |
Q: Good evening; First off, let me say thank you for your time and expertise in offering advice here- I ...
A: I always suggest a deadbolt on every exterior door including any door leading to an attached garage. ...
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| Filing cabinet | 6/12/2008 |
Q: I have a three drawer newish filing cabinet with a tumbler type lock which springs a small metal rod ...
A: It sounds like the cylinder is not connected to the rod. You'll have to reconnect it. If it's ...
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| mortise lock - latch bolt stuck | 6/10/2008 |
Q: We changed the deadbolt cylinder ourselves and made new keys, but we must have done something wrong ...
A: The buttons on the side are for locking and unlocking the latch but it should only affect the ...
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| Training | 6/10/2008 |
Q: James - I have long had an interest in training to become a locksmith but can't seem to find much ...
A: Correspondence courses can help you learn the basics of how locks work, how to rekey, pick and ...
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| Keyed garage and patio locks | 6/9/2008 |
Q: I have Weslock keyed locks on my garage and patio doors that are having similar problems. I have no ...
A: I never recommend Weslock to anyone because they aren't made very well. You may be able to find ...
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| Get deadbolt for old key? | 6/9/2008 |
Q: I had a friend watch my apartment while on vacation and she lost the key to the deadbolt. Instead ...
A: If your apartment uses a master key system you won't be able to rekey any deadbolt to work as it was ...
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| Wooden box | 6/9/2008 |
Q: I have a wooden box about 8 inches square, hinge top, 4 inched deep incliding top. Inside there is ...
A: I don't either. I have forwarded your question to a fellow locksmith that may know more. It may ...
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| Hi James@ | 6/7/2008 |
Q: Regarding a scooter: we found a scooter that is picking up dust, where I work as concierge. Is there ...
A: A locksmith that deals with automotive and/or motorcycles should be able to make a key for it by ...
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| Arrow door knob key lock | 6/7/2008 |
Q: The door knob will not unlock and the bolt will not move. The door is open. I pushed on a flat steel ...
A: There are many types of Arrow locks and a few ways to install or remove them. If you can remove the ...
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| Broken Kwikset deadbolt lock | 6/6/2008 |
Q: We have a Kwikset deadbolt lock that must have a key to open from both inside and outside. For some ...
A: Your door and frame may be out of alignment and causing the bolt to be bound up in the strike plate. ...
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| Locked bathroom door | 6/5/2008 |
Q: Help! Our daughters closed their bathroom door and the knob was locked. Now we can't get the knob ...
A: You shouldn't need to remove the knob. A privacy lock needs a nail or screwdriver to open if you ...
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| anderson atrium door | 6/5/2008 |
Q: the lock on the atrium is stuck in the locked position and I cannot get it open. This is the lock ...
A: Try pushing the latch bolt in manually with a thin knife or other stiff object. You can remove the ...
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| Schlage B362 Double Cylinder Deadbolt | 5/30/2008 |
Q: James, I installed B362 deadbolts on three doors in a new garage. During construction (rushing for ...
A: I'm surprised to hear that type of problem from Schlage locks. It sounds like the bolt isn't ...
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| drilling a disc padlock | 5/30/2008 |
Q: I recently took over running a storage complex and I have to auction off 4 units but they all have ...
A: Chateau locks are not generic. I sold them for years and they work much better than other brands ...
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| cant unlock the knob off the new kwickset | 5/30/2008 |
Q: I used to be able to take the pushpin tool and push in on the little actuator button next to the ...
A: Pry up the inside rose then slide the metal piece that looks like an arrow toward the opening in the ...
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| Anderson Storm Door Lock | 5/30/2008 |
Q: I have the same problem that is described here - but i didn't drill out the key. Is that the only ...
A: I suggest contacting Anderson directly for assistance. A locksmith is really the best option for ...
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| Anderson kitchen door--french door handle | 5/29/2008 |
Q: I have an Anderson french style door (single style, swings in) in my kitchen that leads to the ...
A: That type of lock is a standard for Anderson doors and there are no retrofit knobs that I'm aware ...
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| part-time | 5/28/2008 |
Q: Can I make a good living starting out part time ? We have a locksmith in town ,but I hear alot of ...
A: I started out part time with my business for the same reason. It takes time to build any business ...
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| Replacing 23 yr old Dexter Handleset | 5/28/2008 |
Q: I am replacing a 25 year old Dexter handle set on my front door with a Schlage handleset. The only ...
A: I hope you referred to the bottom hole as the one for the bottom of the handleset that uses a small ...
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| Marks lock on Steel security door | 5/28/2008 |
Q: I am trying to replace the lock on a security door. I have remove all the possible screws for the ...
A: On most security doors there's a plate on the edge of the door. Remove the plate. Under the plate ...
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| parts for National door lock | 5/28/2008 |
Q: We have 120 apartments with "National, Ozone Park" locksets. Most are 45 years old and the springs ...
A: You will have little luck in finding anyone with parts to old locks. The best option is to find a ...
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| Older mortise entry sets | 5/28/2008 |
Q: We have two separate doors with the same mortise/locking thumbpiece/deadbolt entry sets. The locks ...
A: I'd suggest getting a locksmith to visit your home to see if there are any parts available for the ...
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| locked door wont stay shut | 5/28/2008 |
Q: We have an exterior door the knob it selfs lock and when you turn the handle it appears to be locked ...
A: The deadlatch, the part that sticks out from the edge of the door, is not engaging the strike plate ...
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| Replacing 23 yr old Dexter Handleset | 5/28/2008 |
Q: I am replacing a 25 year old Dexter handle set on my front door with a Schlage handleset. The only ...
A: Every brand and model is different with some exceptions. Kwikset handlesets have similar hole ...
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| Re-keying A Master Lock Night Latch | 5/27/2008 |
Q: I bought two master lock night latches and wanted to key them alike. When I took them apart they ...
A: I'd have to see what you have to know what your options are exactly. Take them to a locksmith and ...
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| dead bolt replacement -- no interior screws | 5/25/2008 |
Q: I need to replace a double cylinder deadbolt (weiser) but there aren't screws on the inside, only a ...
A: If your deadbolt has a removable plate around the bolt: 1. Remove the faceplate from the edge of the ...
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| 30 year old Ruswin Lock | 5/25/2008 |
Q: Our church has Ruswin locks and an outside door seems to have broken a spring that helps snap the ...
A: It's unlikely you'll find a part for that. The first place to check is with any locksmith in your ...
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| Can't Remove Lock no screws visible. | 5/24/2008 |
Q: I am trying to change the locks on my how and one of the locks has no visible screws. I realise they ...
A: That looks like a commercial knob. Remove the inside knob by depressing the retainer in that small ...
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| Schlage lever with someting stuck in the key cylinder | 5/24/2008 |
Q: We have a 2-year old who was trying to "pick" the lock with something like a stick or a pencil. ...
A: Take a small drill bit in your hand and thread it into the key hole at one edge then pull it ...
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| cupboard jammed shut | 5/24/2008 |
Q: i have a small cupboard, the ironing board inside appears to have gotten behind the handle and so it ...
A: If removing the hinge pins doesn't work I'm not sure what else to tell you. You didn't say what ...
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| Mailbox key | 5/23/2008 |
Q: I want to know if there is a way to make a mailbox key not work. Being involved in a bad ...
A: You can file one or two of the cuts on it so they are too deep to operate the lock. Just be careful ...
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| Harloc Doorknobs | 5/23/2008 |
Q: We recently purchased an older home and have found Harloc doorknobs on most doors. I recently went ...
A: Standard locks will have a 2-1/8" diameter hole in the door that is 2-3/8" back from the edge of the ...
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| paper clip | 5/22/2008 |
Q: Me and a few mates from uni managed to get a little piece of metal(about a 2mm paper clip size) ...
A: You'll need a small probe like a dental pick or a tiny drill bit without the drill. It will take ...
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| Fulton Marine Lock replacement key | 5/21/2008 |
Q: The other I dropped in the water and I had misplaced this one but did find it eventually. The key ...
A: They can't be duplicated by just anyone. A locksmith will have the proper machine and blanks to be ...
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| antique desk lock | 5/19/2008 |
Q: I inherited an antique desk and recently had it refurbished and had a key made for the lock. The ...
A: Contact a locksmith shop in your area. If it's a furniture key it should be easy to get more keys. ...
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| Schlage handleset from 1984-5 | 5/18/2008 |
Q: I have a Schlage handleset on double entry doors where the working interior knob fell off ...
A: You need to take the whole lock to a locksmith and have them take some measurements and compare them ...
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| kwikset deadbolt | 5/18/2008 |
Q: Picked up a matching deadbolt and entry way set at Lowes. Had no prob installing the entry way set, ...
A: Double cylinder deadbolts have specific types of tailpieces on them. Those are the parts that go ...
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| Titan | 5/16/2008 |
Q: I have a Titan lock that my key gets stuck in all the time. I bought a new door handle and lock to ...
A: If you have a lever or knob, there should be a small hole in the side of it. Push a small tool into ...
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| Master Lever knob comes off | 5/16/2008 |
Q: My husband and I have 2 three year old little girls. One evening the girls locked themselves in the ...
A: Generally those locks have a pin that hold the levers on and sliding the lever back on far enough ...
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| Schlage Exterior Door Lock | 5/12/2008 |
Q: Recently bought this lockset When the inside knob thumb turn is the lock position, the outside knob ...
A: Almost all Schlage locks have this safety feature as a standard function. This allows easy egress ...
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| Deadbolt does not lock/unlock from inside | 5/12/2008 |
Q: We have a Schlage deadbolt on our front door that has a keyhole on the inside and the outside. ...
A: You'll need to remove the lock from the door and check the tailpiece on the inside cylinder as it ...
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| removing broken lock | 5/11/2008 |
Q: The lock on the door to my garage (from house) is having problems. When we closed the door this ...
A: If you are able to remove the knob assembly you can manually retract the latch with a screwdriver. ...
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| skeleton key lock | 5/8/2008 |
Q: Front door of house locks with an antique skeleton key lock. It has been stuck in the lock ...
A: The best option to prevent damage to the key or lock is to contact a locksmith that has dealt with ...
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| Cylinder replacement | 5/6/2008 |
Q: I have a problem similar to the following: Q.I have a security storm door with a double key cylinder ...
A: I'm sorry to say that you need a key to remove those cylinders unless you have a single cylinder ...
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| How to open up a double-cylinder Ideal Superlock II | 5/6/2008 |
Q: Many years ago, I installed an Ideal Superlock II with double cylinders on the side door of my ...
A: You have the right idea but it sounds like it's the other hole that needs to be used. When you turn ...
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| Kwikset Delta Lever | 5/5/2008 |
Q: Can you tell me how to remove the delta lever for rekeying? This lock is different than the lever ...
A: Make sure that it's unlocked first then try depressing the retainer and pull the lever off. You ...
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| Remington Rand Filing Cabinet | 5/5/2008 |
Q: Do you know anyone who could work on an Old Remington Rand Filing cabinet, it was from Oak Ridge ...
A: You'll need to try a few locksmiths in your area, specifically any that have been around a while. ...
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| Bedroom Door Locked | 5/5/2008 |
Q: My bedroom door locked me out. I tried a nail or pin in the hole. Then decided to try to remove ...
A: If you were able to remove the knob from the outside you should be able to move the latch manually ...
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| masterkeying cylinders | 5/5/2008 |
Q: few question to ask here, 1)Do i need to cut new sets of key whenever i need to do masterkey or i ...
A: I'm not sure what you mean. Master key system work like this: Master key fits all locks. Change ...
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| How to open up a double-cylinder Ideal Superlock II | 5/5/2008 |
Q: Many years ago, I installed an Ideal Superlock II with double cylinders on the side door of my ...
A: If it's the same one I'm thinking of you have to insert a key in the inside cylinder and turn it ...
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| Removing cylinder from Schlage lever handle lock | 5/3/2008 |
Q: I needed to rekey the four Schlage lever handle locks at the school where my wife teaches. Three ...
A: There are some models of Schlage locks that are removed a slightly different way but most are always ...
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| Repairing safe doors | 5/1/2008 |
Q: Terry, My brother was helping me move a 500 lb antique safe out of an upstairs apartment. The safe ...
A: If the door opened because of a fall I wouldn't use it to secure any valuables but the safe may be ...
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| masterkeying cylinders | 5/1/2008 |
Q: few question to ask here, 1)Do i need to cut new sets of key whenever i need to do masterkey or i ...
A: When creating a master key system you first need to create a master key chart. The chart shows what ...
|
| Replacing locks on a wooden file cabinet | 4/30/2008 |
Q: I recently purchased a two-drawer wood product filing cabinet second hand. Each of the two drawers ...
A: If you were helpless you wouldn't have found this site. First determine the type of locks on the ...
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| masterkeying cylinders | 4/30/2008 |
Q: few question to ask here, 1)Do i need to cut new sets of key whenever i need to do masterkey or i ...
A: You can use the keys that come with new locks but I advise against it because you never know what ...
|
| Lubricating Doorknob Locks | 4/29/2008 |
Q: What is the best product to use to lubricate a keyed doorknob? It has become very hard to insert ...
A: If lubricating the lock doesn't work then rekeying may be necessary if not replacement. I use REM ...
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| Installing exter door lock | 4/29/2008 |
Q: I have removed an exterior door lock the band4fg7n is Titan. I am trying to reinstall it. I no ...
A: Go to this site: http://www.kwikset.com/Support/default.aspx# Select Installation from the second ...
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| Schlage levers/knobs | 4/27/2008 |
Q: I have bought two fine looking Schlage lock and handle sets for two of my exterior doors. Prior to ...
A: Not to the best of my knowledge. Some of those Schlage handlesets are available in a knob interior ...
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| Deadlock won't unlock | 4/27/2008 |
Q: How can I unlock a Lockwood deadlock on a door that is locked and won't move, and the key has now ...
A: I'm not quite clear on why there's no inside access. Generally the mounting screws are on the ...
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| Baldwin lock cylinder removal | 4/26/2008 |
Q: James, I've have a Baldwin outside lockset that I want to remove to get refinished. I've ...
A: Baldwin locks are installed in different ways so it's hard to know which method to use unless I can ...
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| Harloc deadbolt removal | 4/25/2008 |
Q: I have a Harloc deadbolt in the basement door of my house (4 yr resident) which is keyed on both ...
A: If you can't see the mounting screws on the inside cylinder housing you will need to drill it unless ...
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| Broken Key in Lock | 4/24/2008 |
Q: This just happened to me. I'd like to remove the cylinder as you suggest because I was unable to ...
A: That depends on the screws. There are many types of screws that aren't commonly open with a ...
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| Kwikset Ezset Cylinder in Knob | 4/24/2008 |
Q: How do you remove the cylinder from the knob of a Kwikset ezset lock?
A: Kwikset and Ezset are two different brands. Both should be serviced the same way. To remove the ...
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| entrance door lock | 4/23/2008 |
Q: I live in a 4 story "condo" in Medjugorje, Bosnia. I am on the home owner committee. We have 3 ...
A: You need to adjust your door closer. It's not pulling the door shut far enough which is causing the ...
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| Stuck sliding patio door | 4/22/2008 |
Q: my sliding patio is stuck shut. It has a lever which when is down locks the door and when is turned ...
A: Try turning the lock with a screwdriver after the parts have been removed from the inside of the ...
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| Dexter Lock | 4/22/2008 |
Q: I have a Dexter Handle set circa 1993 in my front door. I need to replace it. Schlage bought ...
A: The only problem you will have is the measurement from the cross bore to the lower screw on the ...
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| Weiser Lock | 4/7/2008 |
Q: I'm renting and stuck with a Weiser thumb-tab door lock that has fallen apart. The inside round ...
A: I'd suggest replacing the lock and making the landlord pay for it. They rented you a place with a ...
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| How do I change this lock??? | 4/6/2008 |
Q: I have been asked to change a deadbolt lock in an aluminum framed glass door but am unsure how to ...
A: The two tiny screws you see are set screws for the mortise cylinders on each side of the door. If ...
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| Emtek entry lock | 4/6/2008 |
Q: I have a key stuck in a Emtek entry lock. I have removed the lock from the door, what now? Can you ...
A: The best option is to take the lock, the part with the key stuck, to a locksmith. They can remove ...
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| Front door handset | 4/5/2008 |
Q: I have a Baldwin brass front door handle (15 yrs old)that I think needs to be replaced. I had a ...
A: I'd suggest a Kwikset UltraMax series lock. They aren't very expensive but look great and will ...
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| Mortise lock and cylinder and screw apart | 4/5/2008 |
Q: My front door handle (inside) came off the door and I think that the cylinder and the screw ...
A: Screw the cylinder back into the lock body until it stops then back it out about 1-1/2 turns making ...
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| new door knob-locked out of house | 4/4/2008 |
Q: I recently purchased five keyed door knobs and deadbolts for exterior doors on house. Unlike the ...
A: Actually the first option should be to install passage knobs or levers on the exterior doors. ...
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| lock picking | 4/1/2008 |
Q: it seems that no matter how long and hard i practice to pick a lock i am just not able to get them ...
A: Practice practice practice. When you encounter a lock you can't pick after several minutes, put ...
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| Deadbolt Options/Security Plan | 4/1/2008 |
Q: We are looking to improve the security of our house and have considered buying new deadbolts. ...
A: First off, Schlage is not a cheap lock no matter where you buy it. Even the least expensive Schlage ...
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| Schlage interior door hdwe removal | 3/29/2008 |
Q: I've an interior door knob that's probably 40-50 years old, which I'd like to remove. Opening the ...
A: You have to use a small flat screwdriver so when you depress the retainer (the metal piece) it goes ...
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| Old filing cabinet | 3/28/2008 |
Q: We have an old HON filing cabinet at our office that no one has a key to anymore. The cabinet is not ...
A: Open and remove the top drawer. Reach in behind the lock (look if you can) and you'll see a clip ...
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| door locks | 3/28/2008 |
Q: I recently bought some qwikset lever key entry locks at lowes. I went back and bought the same type ...
A: Do the keys for the new lock work in the other ones? They may slide in but do they turn? What ...
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| rekeying locks | 3/26/2008 |
Q: i am trying to rekey 3 schalge door locks to a master key and it's own key for each lock. is there a ...
A: I'm not sure if anyone has written instructions on how to do that. It's not complicated but it can ...
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| Which Hon lock | 3/26/2008 |
Q: I have 6 Hon 2-drawer vertical file cabinets without locks. The cabinets do have an oval punch-out ...
A: Most file cabinet lock shapes are the same and have been for years but I can't say if it's been 20 ...
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| Trailer Lock | 3/25/2008 |
Q: I have lost the keys to my Fulton Trailer lock. I would like to avoid cutting it off since there is ...
A: Cost will depend on your location, the population and the going service call rate of locksmiths in ...
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| Replacing a Dexter Handleset | 3/24/2008 |
Q: I need to replace a Dexter handleset on my entrance door. The spring inside the latch assemble is ...
A: Some of those require you to use a key on the inside cylinder to reveal the screws after you turn ...
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| kwikset double deadbolt | 3/24/2008 |
Q: My deadbolt wont open with the key from inside, the bolt will not totally withdraw. It moves but not ...
A: Remove the lock and see if you can manually retract the bolt. Check you key in both cylinders while ...
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| latch won't retract | 3/24/2008 |
Q: I have an interior door which is stuck shut. The door is original to the 50 yr old house, does not ...
A: You can try to insert a stiff plastic shim, like a credit card but I don't suggest a credit card. ...
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| Replacing a Dexter Handleset | 3/22/2008 |
Q: I need to replace a Dexter handleset on my entrance door. The spring inside the latch assemble is ...
A: Your key may work in a Kwikset lock. Go to your local home center with your current key and find ...
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| Medeco deadbolt | 3/21/2008 |
Q: I'm sure that I'm lacking all the proper locksmithing jargon, but here goes .... We have a Medeco ...
A: You're on the right track. The thumbturn has to be removed to access the mounting screws. It ...
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| Kwikset enrty knobs | 3/20/2008 |
Q: I do a little re-keying for my apartments, but have been running into some tough door knobs lately, ...
A: You'll need to pick it, shim it or remove the spring cap to access the plug to rekey it but I don't ...
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| Schlage f-series re-key | 3/20/2008 |
Q: I'm trying to re-key some f-series georgian entry sets that I don't have keys to. Is there a way to ...
A: Remove the clip or nut from the back of the cylinder. Insert a key blank into the front. Insert a ...
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| Kwikset enrty knobs | 3/19/2008 |
Q: I do a little re-keying for my apartments, but have been running into some tough door knobs lately, ...
A: Titan cylinders are removed differently that most of the Kwikset line. You have two options with ...
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| Schlage f-series re-key | 3/19/2008 |
Q: I'm trying to re-key some f-series georgian entry sets that I don't have keys to. Is there a way to ...
A: You have 3 options: 1. Use a shim to open the lock then rekey as normal; 2. Remove the spring cap, ...
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| Atrium Door :ock | 3/15/2008 |
Q: I have an Atrium door mortise lock. The dead bolt does not always completely recesses in the door, ...
A: You can try to lubricate it with WD-40 but the lock is probably worn out. You can find a ...
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| master hitch lock | 3/15/2008 |
Q: I need to open a hitch lock which I have no key for. I would not want to pay to have it opened ...
A: The information you are asking for is not something I can divulge over the internet for everyone to ...
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| Damaged Lock | 3/13/2008 |
Q: At our condo we have a key lock to open the garage door from the outside. Mainly for the garbage ...
A: Picking the lock doesn't normally damage the lock. Something else may have caused that unless the ...
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| New kwikset deadbolt. Interior lock won't turn | 3/12/2008 |
Q: I bought two identically-keyed handle and deadbolt sets to install in my new house. Before ...
A: Kwikset uses an "E" clip on the back of their deadbolts. There is no way to adjust that which is ...
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| New kwikset deadbolt. Interior lock won't turn | 3/12/2008 |
Q: I bought two identically-keyed handle and deadbolt sets to install in my new house. Before ...
A: When installing deadbolts it's important to turn the tailpiece the right direction before installing ...
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| Rekey Kwikset | 3/11/2008 |
Q: I have some older Titan deadbolts and door locks in my house. One of them broke and I was wondering ...
A: Yes you'll need a Kwikset UltraMax to match the KW10 key. The cheaper models of Kwikset use a ...
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| putting a lock on an indoor set of french doors | 3/10/2008 |
Q: i have recently moved into a house that has a pair of french doors on the master bedroom. each door ...
A: Most of those doors have a 2" backset but most locks are 2-3/8" or 2-3/4". You'll have to search ...
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| Removing a Master Padlock | 3/9/2008 |
Q: I have a Master Padlock which was used to prevent the theft of a small auxiliary motor attached to ...
A: The dental tools are too large to function as picks. Besides, your key won't work so neither would ...
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| Door lock | 3/9/2008 |
Q: The lock that is part of the door knob does not engage. I close the door, but could just pull or ...
A: Remove the knob and latch. Replace it with a passage function knob in a style and finish that you ...
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| Adding a lock to a Hon vertical file cabinet | 3/8/2008 |
Q: I have a 13-year old Hon non-locking four drawer vertical file cabinet. Is it possible to add a ...
A: If there is a spot in the top right corner of the front edge of the cabinet that looks like it can ...
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| deadbolt lock removal | 3/8/2008 |
Q: i have a kwitset deadbolt lock. I can get the inside panel off on the door, however it has a silver ...
A: I'm not sure what you mean by 'silver gizmo'. Some single cylinder Kwikset deadbolts (meaning keyed ...
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| classroom door | 3/7/2008 |
Q: The handle on a door between classrooms is a Schlage (lever type) with the deadbolt lock about the ...
A: Remove the inside lever then pry up the trim plate. The screws are below that unless it uses a ...
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| reboaring a metal door | 3/7/2008 |
Q: My daughter bought a Schlage combination deadbolt lock and wants me to install it on her metal door ...
A: New locks require a 2-1/8" dia hole set either 2-3/8" or 2-3/4" from the edge of the door. 2-3/8" ...
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| reboaring a metal door | 3/7/2008 |
Q: My daughter bought a Schlage combination deadbolt lock and wants me to install it on her metal door ...
A: Some homecenters sell a lock installation jig that can be used for that but another option is to ...
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| Kwikset door entry lock | 3/7/2008 |
Q: I'm moving into a new condo that has a Kwikset lock (deadbolt) on the entry door. The developer of ...
A: They are partially correct. It's called a construction keyed lock. There are ball bearings in the ...
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| Schlage from door lock | 3/7/2008 |
Q: I am trying to get the plate back onto the back of the front door keyed Schlage lock and it wont go ...
A: I need more information. Do you have the model or style of the lock? Do you have any photos that ...
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| Schlage lock won't open | 3/6/2008 |
Q: James, I have a Schlage Plymouth series lock on the exterior door, with inside handle. The other ...
A: The latch may be broken or it may be jamming in the strike plate. Is it easier to turn the knob ...
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| My old file cabinet lock is jammed | 3/5/2008 |
Q: I really appreciate your answer to my question. I have a 20 yr old office file cabinet (the kind ...
A: Don't mix two types of lubricants or you'll be in more of a mess than before. First make sure that ...
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| how to gess a combo you know tothing about | 3/5/2008 |
Q: My dad brough a lock home from work and has no clue what the combo is. Some dude changed the combo ...
A: Since a locksmith is not an option, buy a new lock or find one you know the combination to. If it ...
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| Deadbolt will not turn | 3/5/2008 |
Q: My deadbolt will not turn - My husband tried opening it with force & I just removed the broken key ...
A: It sounds like it's jammed in the strike plate. If you've had recent major weather changes this can ...
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| atrium door knob | 3/5/2008 |
Q: i have an andersen atrium hinged patio door with a worn handle. my problem is that the handle keeps ...
A: Those locks are generally not compatible with other types of knobs or levers. You'd have to remove ...
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| deadbolt locks on new manufactured home | 3/4/2008 |
Q: My new manufactured home has an Orion deadbolt lock along with a handset lock. What do you know ...
A: I've not heard of that brand. See if the factory that built your home has any contact information ...
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| Trying to replace old lock | 3/1/2008 |
Q: I currently have a "6 Sargent UL" push lock door knob on my bedroom door. I want to replace it with ...
A: The 6 Line Sargent Series knobs have a hole in the knob which contains a retainer. Depress the ...
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| Schlage compatible with Kwikset | 3/1/2008 |
Q: I currently have a Kwikset handleset on my main entry door. I am replacing the rest of the door ...
A: The keys will not be interchangeable among different brands that use different keyways, such as ...
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| Dexter Doorknob | 2/29/2008 |
Q: My mother has a circa 1962 Dexter doorknob (no lock) on a linen cabinet that has a broken piston ...
A: I understand your situation. I've had customers in the past request the same type of replacement. ...
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| lock mechanism | 2/29/2008 |
Q: My school (GroupT university college) has assigned me and my group with a project to technically ...
A: I'm not aware of any specific sites that show or describe how locks work. We have a page on our ...
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| Entry door knob removal problem | 2/27/2008 |
Q: Re: 30-year old Arrow "pass thru entry type" entry lockset I want to change my entry set. No key ...
A: If the other side didn't have the hole, the side you already removed should have the mounting screws ...
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| Dexter Dead Bolt Lock | 2/26/2008 |
Q: I can't remove a Dexter deadbolt, both sides are keyed, the inside key plate has two holes instead ...
A: Insert a working key into the inside cylinder and turn it. If you turn the right way, the plate ...
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| Harloc entry door lock | 2/24/2008 |
Q: I'm trying to replace an old Harloc locking doorknob unit with a new one -- but can't seem to figure ...
A: I've only dealt with a few of those. You'll have to remove the knob assembly to remove the latch ...
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| Entry door knob removal problem | 2/23/2008 |
Q: Re: 30-year old Arrow "pass thru entry type" entry lockset I want to change my entry set. No key ...
A: The lockset you are referring to is considered a passage function and can be found at any locksmith ...
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| Antique Desk Lock | 2/23/2008 |
Q: I have an antique desk which has a lock that won't open. The key is an old fashioned type and it ...
A: Try moving the door back and forth as you turn the key. It may just be misaligned. You may need ...
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| Schlage deadbolt key | 2/22/2008 |
Q: Installed deadbolt. Key will no turn to lock or unlock?
A: Remove the deadbolt and the bolt. Insert the bolt with the top facing up. Most of those are ...
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| Schools | 2/20/2008 |
Q: Is there a rating system for locksmithing schools? How do I find a school near Grand Rapids?
A: I'm not aware of any rating systems for them. I'm also not aware of any school locations. Contact ...
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| Skeleton lock in old cabinet with no key | 2/18/2008 |
Q: I am trying to identify a skeleton key to fit a cabinet or I want to replace the cabinet lock. It is ...
A: Most of those have mounting screws on the edge. Remove those and it should slide out, although it ...
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| jammed storm door | 2/18/2008 |
Q: my storm door on another apartment seems to be locked form the inside how can i get it open there is ...
A: Take a screwdriver or pry bar and insert it between the door and frame. Push the door toward the ...
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| replace metal door knob with glass knob | 2/17/2008 |
Q: How do I take metal door knob off the shaft on a new door latch set to put on new glass knobs to ...
A: That's a generic question that I can't answer without more information. First of all the knob you ...
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| Help! Schlage M-40 Patio Series | 2/17/2008 |
Q: The used door I purchased has this lockset on it. It is locked, no key, I have unscreed the ...
A: I'm not familiar with that specific model but most Schlage locks require a key to remove the lock ...
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| Late '60s Schlage combo removal | 2/15/2008 |
Q: I have a 1968 house with it's original front door lock combo. It needs rekeying and the door needs ...
A: Without seeing the lock first-hand I can't be much help. Can you send photos: custserv at jmlock ...
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| skeleton lock wont work | 2/13/2008 |
Q: i have an old skeleton lock and i messed it up. do u know how to fix these types of locks? my ...
A: If you mean you have an old style mortise lock that uses a barrel key, you'll have to take the lock ...
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| Key stuck in lock help!! | 2/11/2008 |
Q: The apartment I live in is in a two family home, today as I returned from getting the morning paper ...
A: You need to call a locksmith and have the landlord reimburse you since this is an issue that they ...
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| marks model 90 | 2/10/2008 |
Q: I would like to replace the deadbolt in my marks model 90 mortise lock. I removed it from a metal ...
A: With mortise locks you cannot just replace just a part of it, you have to replace the whole thing. ...
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| Is someone messing with my front door lock? | 2/6/2008 |
Q: An odd question, but one I think is worth asking. My front door lock has always worked smoothly. ...
A: It's possible someone did stick something in there but since you were able to insert and remove the ...
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| Schlage Keypad Deadbolt BE365 Wiring Diagram | 2/5/2008 |
Q: I need the wiring diagram for the Schlage Keypad Deadbolt BE365, so that I can attach it to my ...
A: I'm not sure that's possible. You can view the available information on that lock here: ...
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| bathroom door lock | 2/2/2008 |
Q: Is there a way to modify a current bathroom door lock (Schlage) so it can be locked from the inside ...
A: Locks cannot be modified to operate differently than the manufacturer designed them. You'll have to ...
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| thick door | 1/31/2008 |
Q: I have a 3" thick door I am trying to find a deadbolt lock for.
A: Schlage makes a kit that will work for that. You'll need a Schlage B660 Series deadbolt and a 3.0 ...
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| commercial door lock | 1/31/2008 |
Q: my wife is relocating her business to a new location. the new location has a metal exterior door ...
A: If the lock has a deadlatch and it's working properly you shouldn't be able to do that. The ...
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| Schlage Deadbolt Question | 1/30/2008 |
Q: I am trying to re-key a Schlage deadbolt, and I can't seem to get the cylinder apart (at least I ...
A: Depress the retainer pin and turn the knurled nut counter-clockwise to remove. Set the nut aside. ...
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| Securitron’s UnLatch in Alumn Store Front | 1/27/2008 |
Q: We have the typical aluminum and glass store front door with the typical aluminum and glass side ...
A: It doesn't look like the UnLatch will work with that type of lock. The Mortise UnLatch may since it ...
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| broken key in deadbolt lock | 1/27/2008 |
Q: Key is broken and I can't remove it.Can I disassemble lock from inside although lock is in locked ...
A: If you remove the lock from the door you may be able to access the backside of the key hole but ...
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| baldwin mortise entry lock trouble | 1/26/2008 |
Q: my lock cylinder started to turn about 1/4 inch last month now when door is locked we cant open from ...
A: On the edge of the door is a plate. Remove it. Inside you will see a Phillips head screw. Loosen ...
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| schlage lock rekeying | 1/25/2008 |
Q: I just moved into a warehouse that has a schlage C type lock on a standard aluminum door. it uses a ...
A: Remove the trim plate from the edge of the door and access the set screws (2) that will be level ...
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| What kind of gate lock recommended? | 1/24/2008 |
Q: James, I am looking for a lock/latch for my wood fence gate. I would like something that is keyed, ...
A: I have seen that item before but never installed or serviced one. The one you listed seems to use a ...
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| Adapt Kwikset lock cylinder to Schlage | 1/24/2008 |
Q: I just replaced a Kwikset lock with a Schlage FE595 keypad lock on our office door - works great. ...
A: The Schlage F Series line uses a special cylinder and there are no manufacturers making an OEM ...
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| adams rite | 1/23/2008 |
Q: I have an adams rite type lock I need to replace. It has no trim plate or set screws in the inside ...
A: I need more information. Is the bar one that swings down or straight in? What do you mean by ...
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| locked out many times | 1/22/2008 |
Q: I just puchased a schlage entry lock and when I turn the little lever in the middle of the handle to ...
A: There is nothing to fix on your Schlage lock. That's the way they make them - for safety. The ...
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| Installing a lockset | 1/22/2008 |
Q: I purchased a "shield" brand entrance lockset (model 5601pb--likely a cheap import)for an interior ...
A: I'm sorry but I haven't dealt with that brand. Most of those are set one way and can't be changed. ...
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| House Keys | 1/21/2008 |
Q: Why is it when you have a house key made that it works sometimes and not always? Is it true the ...
A: It's because the key you copied was worn or the machine used to copy it was not properly calibrated ...
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| Gary safe | 1/19/2008 |
Q: I contacted an expert a few ago about a safe purchased on Ebay. I was given a "possible" ...
A: I'm not a safe technician and, as it says above where you asked this question, I do not answer safe ...
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| Medecco Deadbolt installation | 1/18/2008 |
Q: a tenant of mine installed a Medecco Deadbolt (with my permission) and has now moved. I am trying ...
A: The double cylinder Medeco deadbolts that I've dealt with have a cover plate on the inside that ...
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| Best Locks | 1/16/2008 |
Q: My friend and I have begun to take up lock picking as a hobby. We bought about five different ...
A: Best lock cylinders use a slightly different system of pinning than standard ones do and this can ...
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| match locks to a Baldwin | 1/16/2008 |
Q: I have a Baldwin mortise lock set on my front door. Likely an expensive set, and I want to keep it. ...
A: Schlage or any lock with a Schlage key; although you're better off buying the Schlage brand. Check ...
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| Barrel keys | 1/16/2008 |
Q: James do you know where I can get a book on making barrel key I took the Foley course but it didn't ...
A: Try your local library. I'm not aware of any such books. Most locksmiths learn things like that ...
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| Lost key | 1/15/2008 |
Q: I have lost my only key to my warehouse office front door. It is keyed on the outside and thumb ...
A: Since you can't access the inside of the door you'll need a locksmith to pick the lock open then ...
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| recommended lock / deadbolt | 1/14/2008 |
Q: I just moved into a new apartment, and my landlord says I'm allowed to install any type of locking ...
A: Kwikset has redesigned their locks to be as good as other high-quality brands such as Schlage or ...
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| double sided turn lock | 1/14/2008 |
Q: i have a swinging kitchen door that i would like to install and lock on to keep my kids in, but that ...
A: There are no such locks made that have a thumbturn only on both sides. You can use 2 single ...
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| Odd Problem | 1/13/2008 |
Q: I have a (1 year old) Kwikset lever style entry lock which works perfectly 99-1/2% of the time but ...
A: First try to pull the latch back by inserting the outside lever partially into the mechanism and ...
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| Remove a lockset | 1/12/2008 |
Q: I have a building that has commercial grade door lock sets. Key on the outside, turn button on the ...
A: The hole should be between the collar and the back of the knob in the part of the knob that's ...
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| how to unjam a file cabinet lock | 1/12/2008 |
Q: my son broke off a piece of a plastic screwdriver in the lock of my file cabinet, and now I can't ...
A: You'll have to remove the broken piece. Heating up the lock will only damage the lock as will using ...
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| locked out | 1/9/2008 |
Q: I lost the only key I have for my vehicle and I've heard that for a replacement to be made you need ...
A: The VIN# can help a dealer or the factory determine the codes for the ignition assuming the ignition ...
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| Lock for wood storm door | 1/8/2008 |
Q: I would like to be able to put a lockset/lock and/or deadbolt on a wood storm door. The wood storm ...
A: You aren't looking for a standard keyed lock. You are looking for a screen door handle with a keyed ...
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| kwikset double cylinder key won't budge | 1/8/2008 |
Q: Well, the key won't budge on the inside or the outside when the lock is tightened to the point that ...
A: On hollow doors or doors with a foam core, overtightening the mounting screws can cause the lock to ...
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| Lock for wood storm door | 1/8/2008 |
Q: I would like to be able to put a lockset/lock and/or deadbolt on a wood storm door. The wood storm ...
A: You need a screen door type lock. Those can be found at most home centers, hardware stores and ...
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| hon | 1/7/2008 |
Q: I have a Hon 2 drawer that seems to be "sticking" on the right side. The left seems to want to open ...
A: File cabinets aren't really a locksmithing thing but your issue may be due to the locking bar that's ...
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| Best Keys | 1/7/2008 |
Q: Just recently my brother purchase 4 best locks with 2 keys each. The key brand is K2, KB2, I cannot ...
A: It can be difficult to find someone with blanks to those since Best products are only sold directly ...
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| Lori lock! | 1/6/2008 |
Q: I read your post helping the person with the Lori lock that just wouldn't come off. I've found ...
A: 1. Are you certain this is the type of lock you have? 2. Have you tried a different size wrench? 3. ...
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| Unlock a privacy knob from outside | 1/5/2008 |
Q: My bathroom door shut and got locked from inside. I am trying to poke a need into the hole and ...
A: Privacy locks are locked either with a push button or a turn button. If yours has a push button, ...
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| Panic-style deadbolt for a back door | 1/4/2008 |
Q: I am looking for a deadbolt with a latch on the inside, key on outside, that automatically locks ...
A: Because of the nature of deadbolts, automatic relocking is not an option. A lock designed for use ...
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| Latch bolt sticking | 1/4/2008 |
Q: its fine working the knob or lever - but when trying to close the door, the latch stays extended - ...
A: What you need is a Schlage 16210. This is a replacement springlatch for the handleset you have. ...
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| need info on key duplication machine | 1/3/2008 |
Q: i am trying to get into key duplication business and also do designer keys and the guy whom i willbe ...
A: Those machines, as are most high security and code machines, are expensive. I've not used either as ...
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| Replacing Bathroom Doorknob | 1/3/2008 |
Q: I have an existing doorknob that appears to have no screws for removal. There doesn't appear to be ...
A: If you can pry the trim piece back and see screws, the knob is removeable. There will be a hole in ...
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| Sure-Strike product | 1/3/2008 |
Q: What do you know about the new Sure-Strike product? I've been hearing great things about it and am ...
A: I've not had any hands-on experience with that product but after reviewing the installation ...
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| loose door knob | 1/1/2008 |
Q: My front door (Baldwin) has a knob and a deadbolt(key to lock and unlock) on the inside and a ...
A: Without seeing the lock or knowing what model it is I can't be of much help. Most Baldwin locks ...
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| Trying to remove schlage front doorknob | 1/1/2008 |
Q: I have removed all screws, there is a lot of play in the knobs on both sides of the door but I am ...
A: Generally Schlage knobs are removed by either removing the 2 screws on the inside trim piece or by ...
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| can't change my door knob | 12/30/2007 |
Q: i have an old abus door knob that i can't get out of the door. i have taken the trim off, as well as ...
A: I'm not familiar with that brand of knob. There could be a few possible solutions. 1. It's a ...
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| entrance door lock knob | 12/29/2007 |
Q: When I lock my front door from the inside, the small latch on the door knob is horizontal and in the ...
A: Each manufacturer makes their locks a certain way. Schlage is one way, Kwikset is another. Other ...
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| Jammed Schlage Deadbolt | 12/29/2007 |
Q: I have a Change deadbolt that is jammed and will not turn. I only have access to the lock from the ...
A: First off make sure you are lubricating with a wet lubricant, not graphite. I suggest WD-40, gun ...
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| broken schlage deadbolt | 12/29/2007 |
Q: my schlage deadbolt on my kitchen door is broken with the bolt in the doorframe. I removed the two ...
A: You'll have to try and turn it with a screwdriver in the slot where the lock's tailpiece was. If it ...
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| bedroom/bathroom door lock question | 12/28/2007 |
Q: My bathroom has 2 doors, one to the hallway and the other to the master bedroom. The door from the ...
A: You can use a Dormitory function lock. This function works like this: • Knob outside retracts ...
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| Russwin Lock | 12/28/2007 |
Q: I have a home that was built in 1952. I have a Russwin lock that allows the latch to be disengaged ...
A: This sounds like a mortise lock. On the edge of the door should be two buttons toward the bottom of ...
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| Schlag deadbolt won't retract far enough | 12/27/2007 |
Q: I have a steel clad exterior door with a Schlag deadbolt (about 5 years old) - keyed outside, lever ...
A: Try pushing the door so that the smaller part of the latch goes into the hole of the strike plate ...
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| LOCK STUCK | 12/27/2007 |
Q: MY FRONT DOOR 5 LEVER LOCK WILL ONLY OPEN OR LOCK FROM THE OUTSIDE. THE KEY DOES NOT TURN AT ALL IN ...
A: You need to have the lock looked at by a locksmith. The inside out outside cylinders operate ...
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| LOCK STUCK | 12/27/2007 |
Q: MY FRONT DOOR 5 LEVER LOCK WILL ONLY OPEN OR LOCK FROM THE OUTSIDE. THE KEY DOES NOT TURN AT ALL IN ...
A: You'll have to describe the lock in more detail. What brand is it? It's a lever lock with a key on ...
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| Broken lock | 12/26/2007 |
Q: I have a broken marks mortise lock, when i turn the key in the cylinder it moves freely and likewise ...
A: I'm not sure why you would have to pay several hundred to get it open and fixed, it should be less ...
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| Old Sears safe | 12/22/2007 |
Q: I have an old sears safe it has a handle and dial on front I have the combination but do not know ...
A: I don't answer questions about safes (it says that above where you asked). Try Right 4 times stop ...
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| old padlocks | 12/21/2007 |
Q: Over the years I have collected some big old brass padlocks of the pin tumbler style. Corbin, Yale, ...
A: Actually that's beyond my abilities. Without seeing the locks it's hard to know how to proceed. ...
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| remove a cylinder lock | 12/21/2007 |
Q: im trying to remove a cylinder lock from a aluminum glass door with bushbar exit it locks at top & ...
A: Remove the inside latch side of the exit bar, carefully. Behind the trim are 2 screws for the ...
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| Skeleton Key Stuck in Warded Lock | 12/20/2007 |
Q: We have a lock with a skeleton key stuck inside. The key will turn to move the bolt open and closed ...
A: It should turn enough in one direction if not both so you can line up the key and pull it out. You ...
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| What are the best locks for a 4plex building | 12/19/2007 |
Q: I have a 4plex apartment building all with different types and styles of locks. what do you ...
A: The locks that will last the longest are Schlage. They are easy to work with as long as you have ...
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| corbin Deadbolt | 12/18/2007 |
Q: I have a double sided deadbolt and I would like to rekey both sides and I cant figure out how to ...
A: If your deadbolt has a removable plate around the bolt: 1. Remove the faceplate from the edge of the ...
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| Key stuck inside deadbolt | 12/13/2007 |
Q: I have a deadbolt(keyhole outside, knob inside) on my front door, the key got stuck inside the ...
A: Push in on the part that normally turns as you pull the key out. If that doesn't work, spray some ...
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| Kuickset double Deadbolt | 12/11/2007 |
Q: I have been trying to remove the deadbolt with no success in order to rekey. I am trying to have ...
A: Some Kwikset deadbolts have two screws that hold in the inside thumbturn then there are 2 other ...
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| Key not turning in lock | 12/11/2007 |
Q: We are having problems with a lock for one of our condo exterior doors. A few owners are unable to ...
A: Since the problem is with more than one key, spray some WD-40 or silicone into the key hole then ...
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| Privacy locks for thin doors | 12/9/2007 |
Q: I have an old door that is 1" thick and need to install a privacy lockset on it. I cannot seem to ...
A: Kwikset makes a remodeling plate, as do others, that will increase the thickness of your door enough ...
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| Schlage lever handle/lock comes loose when jiggled | 12/8/2007 |
Q: James, I appreciated the thoroughness of your answers to other questions so I thought I'd see if you ...
A: Most Schlage locks have a lifetime mechanical warranty and yours should be no different. Contact ...
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| Cannot pull door shut due to | 12/4/2007 |
Q: We normally pull our door shut and the lock mechanism moves as the sloped part gets pushed by the ...
A: Generally the only way this problem occurrs is when the deadlatch mechanism is broken. You can find ...
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| Screwless double sided deadbolt removal | 12/4/2007 |
Q: I have a double sided deadbolt in my front door. It has large glass on the upper portion of the ...
A: This is what I tell everyone that has this situation: If your deadbolt has a removable plate around ...
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| deadbolt removal | 12/4/2007 |
Q: I am replacing a deadbolt but the one currently in the door (Lori) has a cylinder inside the door, ...
A: If your deadbolt has a removable plate around the bolt: 1. Remove the faceplate from the edge of the ...
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| Cannot pull door shut due to "broken" lock. | 12/4/2007 |
Q: We normally pull our door shut and the lock mechanism moves as the sloped part gets pushed by the ...
A: First off, Home Depot is not somewhere I'd recommend buying locks from, but then again as a ...
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| Baldwin | 12/3/2007 |
Q: I have several Baldwin and a few Schlage keyed entry knobs that I need to key, none of which have ...
A: The cylinder must be turned out of the way of the retainer to remove the knob. You should be able ...
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| front door lever | 12/3/2007 |
Q: I own a townhouse that has a metal front door with a lever on the exterior for opening. Over the ...
A: Most levers have a feature that doesn't allow the outside lever to be removed unless the key is ...
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| removing old door knobs | 12/2/2007 |
Q: We have a Dexter door knob on the bathroom door that locks inside for privacy that was installed in ...
A: The trim plate will pry off. You can be certain of this if you find any notch in the edge of the ...
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| Kwikset master pin #1 | 12/2/2007 |
Q: I read a previous post of yours where you suggested not using Kwikset master pin #1, because it can ...
A: I've not seen a kit with a .031" master pin but I've checked with LAB and they do make those ...
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| kwikset thumbturn | 12/1/2007 |
Q: my door lock is kind of loose, it wiggles a bit, I am thinking there is perhaps some lose screws to ...
A: I think you are referring to a deadbolt lock. There may be a small screw in the hole on the ...
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| Kwikset door latch problem | 11/28/2007 |
Q: All of a sudden my door will not stay latched. It's not the strike plate, but the latch itself ...
A: Take the lock off the door and remove the latch. Take the latch to a locksmith and get a new one. ...
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| replacing schlage f series door lock | 11/27/2007 |
Q: I recently moved in and have been trying to change my door lock. It can be opened with key from ...
A: You may need a locksmith to reinstall it properly because it sounds like you didn't know much about ...
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| Schlage c-clip removal | 11/27/2007 |
Q: I just got a job with Hy-Ko cutting keys in a Home Depot kiosk. I also re-key Kwikset, Schlage and ...
A: The 'C' clips on Schlage locks are best removed by using two flathead screwdrivers (small ones) at ...
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| Lockwood interior door knob removal | 11/27/2007 |
Q: same prob as 11/20/07 Q&A. "Insert probe in small hole on side of shaft/neck. I'm not having any ...
A: If there is a retainer in the knob, depressing the retainer with a probe will release it and you ...
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| problem opening the door | 11/25/2007 |
Q: Good Morning, I have a problem with my door knob. It will only open the door to the outside if I ...
A: Graphite won't help with this problem. You'll need to replace the lock. You need to measure the ...
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| lock on gun safe | 11/24/2007 |
Q: I have a Champion gun safe with an S&G lock. I wrote down 4 numbers for the combination but did not ...
A: I don't answer safe questions (it says this above where you asked) because I don't service them so I ...
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| Schlage bathroom knob will not lock | 11/24/2007 |
Q: I have an old Schlage knob in a bathroom, and it won't lock. (The turn-button or whatever it is ...
A: The simplest fix: Remove it and replace it with a new one. If the mechanical part of the lock stops ...
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| parker lockset rekeying | 11/23/2007 |
Q: How do I get the cylinder out of the lockset?
A: That brand means nothing to me. I'd need more information to help you. What type of lock is it? ...
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| Corbin Russwin IC core re-pinning procedure | 11/22/2007 |
Q: I have several IC cores[Corbin Russwin]without keys or bittings. I have a control key[Ilco A1011-L4 ...
A: Unfortunately I have never keyed an IC core. I do know that IC pinning equipment is needed and that ...
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| mortise entry set | 11/22/2007 |
Q: I got an old Penn Hardware mortise entry lock that I'm tryting to remove for cleaning and repair. I ...
A: The outside rod must be turned so that the square part lines up with the square hole in the lock ...
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| Lockwood Door Knob Removal | 11/20/2007 |
Q: I have a door knob that I would like to replace. There are no screws and I cannot seem to get it ...
A: There may be a small hole in the side of the part of the lock that goes from the back of the knob to ...
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| Medium security padlocks | 11/19/2007 |
Q: I want to follow up on a previous question ...
A: The term "high security" means different things to different people. It does not mean pick proof or ...
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| barrel will not budge!!!!! help!! | 11/18/2007 |
Q: ! I have managed to break my key in doorlock (euro upvc door) i cannot take the barrel out as i ...
A: You'll have to extract the broken part, take both pieces of the key to a locksmith and have them ...
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| ideal security lockset | 11/17/2007 |
Q: This lockset has no movable handle inside. It takes a key inside and out. There are no bolts ...
A: If you aren't having luck with the one hole try the other one opposite of that. Turn the key the ...
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| Medium security padlocks | 11/17/2007 |
Q: I want to follow up on a previous question ...
A: That question was answered by a different expert so I'd have no idea what he's referring to. I ...
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| The price is right | 11/15/2007 |
Q: Is it true that if you lose the keys (like a master key) to your car, all you need to do is to take ...
A: Technically there is no 'master key' to a vehicle and unless your house or business locks are master ...
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| New Anderson door and Pegaus door lock and bolt | 11/14/2007 |
Q: We bought a new front door and handle/lock set, Anderson and Pegasus. After it was installed by ...
A: I'm not familiar with that brand so it may have a weird feature but most likely it was either ...
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| Deadbolt key won't turn | 11/14/2007 |
Q: I picked a deadbolt in my house and now the key won't turn. I've been able to pick it again and it ...
A: You may have damaged something internally which will still allow you to pick the lock but a key may ...
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| Key will lock deadbolt, but not unlock it. | 11/13/2007 |
Q: I have a Weiser deadbolt (key outside, knob inside) on the front door which sits inside from a storm ...
A: A lot of people ignore the warning signs of their locks and assume that they should just work ...
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| Key will lock deadbolt, but not unlock it. | 11/13/2007 |
Q: I have a Weiser deadbolt (key outside, knob inside) on the front door which sits inside from a storm ...
A: With the door open, try the key in both directions. If it's sticky in either, the cylinder and/or ...
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| door latch assembly | 11/12/2007 |
Q: I'm not a locksmith by any stretch of the imagination so I may not use the right terminology...so I ...
A: Without seeing the latch or knowing what brand and model the lock is I wouldn't be able to assit ...
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| Dexter door knob | 11/11/2007 |
Q: Can't get a dexter door knob off. Have put a small blade into the slot. Got the outside door knob ...
A: If you can remove the outside knob and the inside one is still installed, that's a problem since the ...
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| Lock on the Condo Mailbox | 11/7/2007 |
Q: We lost the only key to our condo mailbox. Its one of those mailboxes where there are a bunch locked ...
A: Those boxes are owned by the condo building. The United States Postal Service has no authority to, ...
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| single sided deadbolt | 11/6/2007 |
Q: I'm looking for a single sided deadbot where there is nothing/or only a cover plate showing on the ...
A: Usually those types of locks have a thumbturn on one side, nothing on the other. I know of only one ...
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| Problem with single cylinder dead bolt | 11/5/2007 |
Q: Thought my problem was poorly cut keys, but seems that's not the case. Our single cylinder dead ...
A: You didn't mention the brand but the most commmon issue with some deadbolts is the clip that holds ...
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| Weiser broken lock | 11/5/2007 |
Q: I have a Weiser front entry set that suddenly became difficult to operate. I took it apart and found ...
A: Any part of a lock that is made of cast metal is most likely not replaceable. If the part is ...
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| Removing barrel of mila multi lock back door | 11/5/2007 |
Q: We have lost the only key to our back door. It is a milo multi lock - which runs the length of the ...
A: You need a key to remove it unless it has a thumbturn on the inside. With a thumbturn you can turn ...
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| Bedroom Door Lock | 11/3/2007 |
Q: What are my options for putting a lock on my bedroom door that I can open from the outside? I.e. I ...
A: Most of the time you can replace existing locks (non-locking ones) with new ones without a problem. ...
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| Removal of tumbler from a Schlage lever lock | 11/2/2007 |
Q: I have some locksmith knowledge and can rekey most locks. However, I have on lock which is on the ...
A: Insert a key into the cylinder and turn 45 degrees. Insert a probe into the small hole on the side ...
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| Sticking door handle and lock | 11/2/2007 |
Q: We have a problem with our front door handle and deadbolt lock. The handle does not turn properly, ...
A: Judy, If the problem continues, contact a locksmith and have them check the lock out. Schlage ...
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| Sticking door handle and lock | 11/2/2007 |
Q: We have a problem with our front door handle and deadbolt lock. The handle does not turn properly, ...
A: First of all whatever you replaced may have been better than the Weiser locks you now have. Make ...
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| locksmithing at home depot | 11/1/2007 |
Q: I am a locksmith in the Boston MA area and have always wondered about doing work for Home Depot. If ...
A: You must have misread a post of mine or it may have been from someone else. I don't now, and never ...
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| rekeying | 10/31/2007 |
Q: I rekeyed a knob cylinder. All the new pins appear to be the correct length. With the key in the ...
A: Insert the follower into the shell after you dump all the pins from it. Pull the follower back ...
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| rekeying | 10/30/2007 |
Q: I rekeyed a knob cylinder. All the new pins appear to be the correct length. With the key in the ...
A: It sounds like there are too many pins in the shell. Remove the plug then dump the pins & springs ...
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| shlage commercial lever/deadbolt | 10/29/2007 |
Q: another writer is having the exact problem I am having with my door levers coming apart. I am ...
A: I'm not aware of a Schlage model S2000. There is a model S200. For that one you'll have to contact ...
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| Baldwin Handleset Doorlock | 10/28/2007 |
Q: I have a very nice Brass Baldwin handle set on my front door. The "opener" I am terming as the flat ...
A: I've not had any luck with Baldwin lasting very long. The thumbpiece you are referring to can ...
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| Using a Key gage | 10/28/2007 |
Q: How do you use a key gage?
A: Insert a cut key into the gauge starting at the first cut on the key and into the shallowest point ...
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| my deadbolt wont open with key | 10/28/2007 |
Q: My dog locked herself in my garage apartment the problem is both the keys i have for the deadbolt ...
A: Call the apartment manager. If the keys they gave you don't work, it's their responsiblity to get ...
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| Schlage P515-302 in "fail safe" mode? | 10/26/2007 |
Q: Bought 3 sets, husband installed, but if you twist the thumb button to lock when you enter the house ...
A: All Schlage lockable locks regardless of model are fail safe. There is no way to change the mode. ...
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| Deadbolt won't always turn | 10/24/2007 |
Q: We installed our deadbolt ourselves. The key doesn't work. Then, when I take off the inside ...
A: Remove the lock from the door. The tailpiece of the deadbolt needs to be turned properly before ...
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| picking a lock | 10/23/2007 |
Q: I have spent many hrs.today picking on this lever schlage lock and no luck. let me ask you , is ...
A: Schlage locks are hard to pick because of the keyway design. Sometimes locks are keyed in such a ...
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| Extended shaft on lock | 10/22/2007 |
Q: I'm building a sound studio which will have a 1 3/8" solid wood door cover with 1" accoustical ...
A: Corbin-Russwin makes a mortise lock that will fit up to a 4" thick door. It would most likely be a ...
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| replacing 30 year old deadlock | 10/22/2007 |
Q: First, thanks for a helpful website. I've learned a lot! My mother's 30+ year old house has a ...
A: It sounds like you have a mortise lock. There should be a screw that lines up with the outside key ...
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| Can not remove the cylinder of TITAN deadbolt | 10/21/2007 |
Q: I slid the latch bolt out of housing, but the cylinder still connected each other. I could not take ...
A: You'll have to explain a bit better what you are trying to do and what you have already done. A ...
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| deadbolt | 10/21/2007 |
Q: My back door deadbolt will lock from the outside, but the key will not come out unless I unlock it ...
A: If this is a new problem your lock may need replacing. If this issue has always been around, your ...
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| I am trying to remove deadbolt w/o visible screws | 10/19/2007 |
Q: my question is the deadbolt does not have screws and i have no idea how to get it out of the door to ...
A: If your deadbolt has a removable plate around the bolt: 1. Remove the faceplate from the edge of the ...
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| Locked out deadbolt | 10/19/2007 |
Q: I am some what new to property preservation and I'm always looking for the best wa to gain entry ...
A: While I appreciate your interest, I cannot give that information out. You'll need to be a licensed ...
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| Bathroom door can not be locked | 10/19/2007 |
Q: My bathroom door has one of the pushin door locks. The problem is that the pushin button seems to be ...
A: It may be filled with dirt and grime. Even though some people keep their homes clean, including ...
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| Copied Keys do not work | 10/19/2007 |
Q: My room mate and I have recently moved into a new apartment. The landlord only gace us one set of ...
A: The locksmiths needed to use calipers on your key, the one that works, and compare that to the ...
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| Lockwood interior door set | 10/19/2007 |
Q: I had to change our bedroom door and re used the same lockset. Now it will not lock. It is a ...
A: Sometimes removing an old lock will cause it not to function when reinstalled. Other times it's not ...
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| Chinese Key | 10/19/2007 |
Q: I ordered a really nice stainless steel door from China and it came with 6 keys. I need to make ...
A: You'll have to get in touch with the company in China. Most likely there will be noone in the US ...
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| removal of bedroom door knob set | 10/18/2007 |
Q: I have a Harloc door knob set that I would like to replace with another brand. I managed to ...
A: You need to remove the mounting screws for the knob assembly then remove the latch mechanism. Once ...
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| Replacing a file cabinet lock | 10/18/2007 |
Q: I bought an older metal 5-drawer filing cabinet recently. It has a standard lock, which is ...
A: If the cabinet is a Hon, you can buy a Hon kit but if it's any other brand you'll have to get the ...
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| loose door knob | 10/18/2007 |
Q: James, This is related to another question somebody asked you. My door knob on my front door came ...
A: It's been a while since I dealt with a Titan lock (they don't make them any longer) so there are two ...
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| locks for a thick door | 10/17/2007 |
Q: I am looking to replace the handle and deadbolt on an old 2 inch thick door. All of the sets I have ...
A: Up to 2" thickness: Schlage D Series levers and knobs; Arrow Q Series; Falcon B Series & Y Series ...
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| keys, locks, security | 10/17/2007 |
Q: My 81 year old father has every lock - both door knob & deadbolt type - on every door keyed so that ...
A: That is the standard way to have locks keyed. This is for convenience and safety. If you have ...
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| Another bobby pin question... | 10/16/2007 |
Q: My daughter got locked out of the house yesterday, so she tried to play locksmith an stuck a bobby ...
A: Take a small drill bit into your hand and thread it into the lock next to the broken bobby pin then ...
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| Latch Removal | 10/16/2007 |
Q: I'm trying to replace several interior doorknobs. They are the old style locksets with a smaller ...
A: Once you remove the knobs you should be able to remove the latches by prying from the inside of the ...
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| Locksmithing Schools | 10/15/2007 |
Q: Actually I have 2 ???? The 1st one being: Can you recommend any on-line schools for locksmithing and ...
A: I don't know of any 'online' schools but there are a few that are correspondence type. The only one ...
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| Latch Removal | 10/15/2007 |
Q: I'm trying to replace several interior doorknobs. They are the old style locksets with a smaller ...
A: I'm not completely clear on what you are describing. With any lock, regardless of style, brand or ...
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| Schalge deadbolt lock key sticks | 10/14/2007 |
Q: I have 2 double side deadbolt locks on my house (2 diff. doors). One door has no issues, the front ...
A: The one you have isn't available from anyone except a locksmith but it probably won't be a Schlage ...
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| Schalge deadbolt lock key sticks | 10/13/2007 |
Q: I have 2 double side deadbolt locks on my house (2 diff. doors). One door has no issues, the front ...
A: You are doing right by maintaining the locks with at least some form of wet lubricant - never use ...
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| Need Keys for 2 Best ic locks | 10/11/2007 |
Q: I bought a tool cabinet a junk store. It has 2 Best IC locks on it. The #'s are C107 and C112. Is ...
A: They still don't teach bumping. You can pick IC cores the same way as regular cylinders but ...
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| Need Keys for 2 Best ic locks | 10/11/2007 |
Q: I bought a tool cabinet a junk store. It has 2 Best IC locks on it. The #'s are C107 and C112. Is ...
A: They will need to be disassembled by a locksmith that has the right tools. If you can't remove the ...
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| Old Mosler Safe | 10/11/2007 |
Q: .. I bought a 1900 era house, which had an old safe in it... The prior owner lost the combination. ...
A: First off, as stated before you asked this question, I do not answer safe questions. Generally ...
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| kwikset lock | 10/9/2007 |
Q: A storage room in my house has a kwikset door lock which has accidently closed in the locked ...
A: Get a wire hanger or something similar and bend it in a U shape. Feed it through the gap between ...
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| Mortise lockset problems | 10/9/2007 |
Q: that we inherited from the previous owners. The problem is that while the key unlocks the deadbolt ...
A: If you are locked out, you'll need a locksmith to help you. If you can open the door, there's not ...
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| Senior Apartments | 10/9/2007 |
Q: I Manage a Senior retirement home and we are planning to re-key our community but without a master. ...
A: Without a master key system in use, it means having one spare key for every door which could cause ...
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| keyed entry door locks | 10/7/2007 |
Q: I need to change the outside door locks in my condo. It is just a keyed door knob on one end and a ...
A: That function is designed for commercial use and home centers don't carry those. Contact a local ...
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| Removing a "Falcon" lockset | 10/7/2007 |
Q: I want to replace the lockset on my metal patio door. It is lockable on each side with a key. The ...
A: Insert your key into the inside lever and turn it 90 degrees. Insert a small probe (a screwdriver ...
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| removing deadbolt lock | 10/7/2007 |
Q: I am trying to remove a deadbolt lock in my home of 29 years.It is a Lori lock.I can't get 2 screws ...
A: That sounds like it could be a one-way screw. You'll need a one-way screw remover and those are ...
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| jammed lock | 10/6/2007 |
Q: I have an old (1950s – 60s) style door knob on my linen closet. Last night I turned the knob and ...
A: Without seeing the lock first hand I can't be much more help. You appeared to have done everything ...
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| Schlage double-cylinder deadbolt | 10/6/2007 |
Q: we just replaced our back door and need help in assembling our deadbolt. We finally got it off the ...
A: You can check the Schlage website for installation instructions which will be specific for the model ...
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| Changing Kwikset handleset interior knob to a lever | 10/3/2007 |
Q: I have a Kwikset handleset, Dakota model w/ interior knob. I want to change the interior round knob ...
A: I've never had this situation come up before and I don't have a knob I can look at to tell you the ...
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| baldwin lock cylinder | 10/3/2007 |
Q: I recently painted our front door and removed our old Baldwin mortise lock set so I could clean and ...
A: Mortise cylinders are availble in 1", 1-1/8" and 1-1/4" lengths. Measure from the back of the face ...
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| baldwin lock cylinder | 10/3/2007 |
Q: I recently painted our front door and removed our old Baldwin mortise lock set so I could clean and ...
A: Make sure the set screw isn't in the way before you try again. Check the threads of the cylinder ...
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| Schlage Deadbolt | 10/2/2007 |
Q: I have a Schlage double side deadbolt attacthed on my front door. I cannot seem to find a way to ...
A: Looking at the inside part of the lock, if there are two holes that seem to go nowhere, insert a key ...
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| lock cost | 10/1/2007 |
Q: I just had my locks changed and think I just got totally ripped off. I asked to have a lock ...
A: What is the name of the lock? Is there a brand name anywhere on the lock or the box? Did they tell ...
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| Trim removal on old Arrow deadbolt | 10/1/2007 |
Q: James, Our ministry recently purchased a circa 1976 building that has double cylinder deadbolts on ...
A: I think I follow what you mean. Insert a working key into the inside key hole and turn it to the ...
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| how do I tighten a Kwikset door lock | 9/30/2007 |
Q: The locks on both our doors are Kwiksets. There is a dead bolt on top, and underneath is just a ...
A: Try this: http://www.jmlock.com/kw_knob_install.pdf Those instructions work with the newer Kwikset ...
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| sargent 77 knob | 9/29/2007 |
Q: I have a metal door with what says sargent 77 on the lock set with a knob not a lever. I would like ...
A: On some Sargent knobs the only way I can ever get them off is to loosen the small part just in front ...
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| how to remove bath Kwikset knob | 9/29/2007 |
Q: I have 2 yr old house with Kwikset door hardware. One of the bathroom door knobs has loosened up ...
A: http://www.jmlock.com/kw_knob_install.pdf This is a 1MB file that I got from Kwikset. The link ...
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| moving a core to a new doorknob | 9/29/2007 |
Q: I would like to install a new doorknob on an exterior door but continue to use the existing key. ...
A: If the old and new lock are made by the same manufacturer and are the same model, you can remove the ...
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| Changing a Kwikset Door Knob | 9/29/2007 |
Q: I'm trying to change my current bedroom Kwikset door knob to a Kwikset Key Entry. I have taken out ...
A: Pry that trim piece off, the one with the slit. Under that should be a large slot. Inside the slot ...
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| commercial door rekey or lock removal | 9/27/2007 |
Q: The doors are made of glass and metal frame . The lock device is just a key insert which then ...
A: Remove the face plate on the edge of the door. At the center line of the lock cylinders are two set ...
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| Stuck key | 9/25/2007 |
Q: I unscrewed the lock for a Kwik-set deadbolt with locks on both sides to paint the door. When I ...
A: Remove the lock from both sides. Remove the bolt mechanism. Look at the mechanism and make sure ...
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| Schlage lever style doorlock disassembly | 9/25/2007 |
Q: I have a Schlage 515-217 lever style doorlock and need to disassemble the lever part in order to ...
A: The inside lever has either a small retainer that needs depressed or a small allen screw that needs ...
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| Unable to remove doorknob | 9/24/2007 |
Q: I am unable to remove my doorknob. I am using a small flathead screwdriver to push in the small ...
A: The inside knob stem is the one that needs removed. Most locks require a very small tool to depress ...
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| Replace Schlage door lock | 9/24/2007 |
Q: I have an old schlage dead bolt lock that I would like to replace. It is keyed on both sides & has ...
A: The caps are in fact thumbtacks, in a way. The whole thing of each needs to be removed. Sometimes ...
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| Baldwin Loose Door Handle | 9/23/2007 |
Q: We have an exterior Baldwin handle on our front door that is loose and we cannot seem to tighten it. ...
A: Please call Baldwin Consumer Services Department toll-free at 1-800-566-1986. Consumer Service ...
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| Rekey Schlage Everest lock | 9/23/2007 |
Q: In my office we have Schlage D series locks with Everest cylinders. I have 14 locks I would like to ...
A: You'll need a master keying chart and yes, have a locksmith cut the keys for you as well as buying a ...
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| Removing bathroom door knob | 9/21/2007 |
Q: I'm trying to remove a bathroom door knob set in order to replace it. I removed the face plate that ...
A: You'll need to push in on the small retainer that is on the back thinner side of the inside knob. ...
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| Broken lock | 9/20/2007 |
Q: We have just had a new back door put on ( a used one from a friend) It has only been on two days and ...
A: Remove the screws from the inside that are on the inside knob trim. Pull the inside knob out and ...
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| New Kwikset SmartKey locks | 9/19/2007 |
Q: I recently installed a Kwikset deadbolt with SmartKey technology. I was amazed that it could be ...
A: I've yet to install and use one of the new locks but they claim to be bump proof (not just ...
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| VW Passat Duplicate Key | 9/18/2007 |
Q: I lost my remote key for my passat. if I goto the dealership they will charge me $250 bucks to ...
A: You are taking a risk buying from an ebay auction. If you lost the only key you have for your car, ...
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| master question kwikset | 9/18/2007 |
Q: my question is im kinda new to keying locks and what not but im trying to figure out just how to ...
A: Master: 00455 Change: 62463 Bottom pins: 00453 Master pins: 62X12 Again I stress that using a #1 ...
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| master question kwikset | 9/17/2007 |
Q: my question is im kinda new to keying locks and what not but im trying to figure out just how to ...
A: Place the lower of the two numbered pins in the plug first then subtract the difference between the ...
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| Schlage Doorknob | 9/17/2007 |
Q: I just bought my house and the door leading from the kitchen to the garage has no key. Its a Schlage ...
A: The screws should be visible from the inside on the trim plate of the lock. Schlage may be using a ...
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| Mortise lock stuck (locked position)! | 9/17/2007 |
Q: Our back door lock has jammed. It locked fine in the morning (not even stiff) but when we came home ...
A: Something may have broken inside the lock or your door may have swelled. Try unlocking it as you ...
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| filing cabinet lock | 9/16/2007 |
Q: lost key to 4 drawer filing cabinet where the lock pushes in to lock all drawers. older model steel ...
A: If there is a number on the face of the lock, call a local locksmith and get a price estimate on ...
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| 1940's doorknob locked itself! | 9/16/2007 |
Q: Our 1948 house has many original brass doorknobs on interior doors, some of which have an opening ...
A: You'll need to replace it unless you can find a locksmith that can repair it, which is not likely. ...
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| Ideal Security deadbolt lock | 9/15/2007 |
Q: I have Part of a deadbolt lock. It says Ideal Security and the number on it is 9280-15. Do you know ...
A: Ideal security is closed. There are no replacment parts and no locks that are currently made that ...
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| Bathroom door lock | 9/15/2007 |
Q: I have an old bathroom door lock (harloc)that has a round, grooved cylinder around the latch that ...
A: The latch is the part that extends from the door and goes into the door jamb. A latch is spring ...
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| Handleset latch jammed | 9/15/2007 |
Q: My front door lock will not open. I have removed the handleset from the door and have discovered the ...
A: Remove the whole assembly of that part of the lock from the door then you may have to destroy the ...
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| Brass Master Padlock - Seized? | 9/15/2007 |
Q: I've been using a brass Master padlock as a bike lock outside for sometime, and it hasn't been ...
A: The shackle may be frozen stuck (rusted). The hole is for drainage. The key should turn close to ...
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| door lock | 9/11/2007 |
Q: the screws are loose on my door how do i tighten them
A: That depends on what type of lock you have on your door. Most locks you can just tighten the ...
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| evil privacy lock | 9/9/2007 |
Q: I have a privacy lock on my apt's bathroom door that was shut which the push button lock was locked ...
A: As listed in the previous questions you referenced, if you push on the button inside to lock it, you ...
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| Mosler safe combination | 9/9/2007 |
Q: I inherited a class c,relocking device 502306,1955 Mosler safe recently from my dad. He never ...
A: Most 3 number dial safe locks are actually 4. If you can view the dials you will see 3 on a spindle ...
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| h | 9/8/2007 |
Q: i wish to break a master lock whose key i lost what is the prefered method:turnaround time/duration ...
A: Unfortunately I cannot divulge that information simply because I cannot verify that you are the one ...
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| No Key to Locked Door | 9/7/2007 |
Q: I recently moved into a 1930's home. One of the exterior doors has a Yale double cylinder deadbolt, ...
A: If turning the knob doesn't retract the bolt, and there's no thumbturn for the bolt, the only way to ...
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| Hon Lateral Filing Cabinet | 9/7/2007 |
Q: When I unlock the cabinet, the lower three drawers will open (one at a time, of course) but the top ...
A: It's no bother. Try removing the second drawer then reaching in to the right and lifting the ...
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| Hon Lateral Filing Cabinet | 9/7/2007 |
Q: When I unlock the cabinet, the lower three drawers will open (one at a time, of course) but the top ...
A: The locking bar may not be opening fully. Remove the top drawer, lock the cabinet and then unlock ...
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| Lever Locks/Sergent RE 6 pin keyways | 9/7/2007 |
Q: Will Sergent RE 6 pin keyways fit and work properly in LSDA L100 lever sets? ANSWER: Hello Jerry, ...
A: Schlage D Series Rhodes Lever, Yale Augusta 5400 Series, Arrow W or Q Series or Sargent 10 Line or ...
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| Loose deadbolt | 9/6/2007 |
Q: I read your April 1, 2007 response on this same subject but did not find any screws. This is a ...
A: You'll need a locksmith to come to your house to help you further. It sounds like there may be a ...
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| Loose deadbolt | 9/6/2007 |
Q: I read your April 1, 2007 response on this same subject but did not find any screws. This is a ...
A: You'll need a 5/32" allen wrench, or one within that size range unless your deadbolt has a cover ...
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| Lever Locks/Sergent RE 6 pin keyways | 9/6/2007 |
Q: Will Sergent RE 6 pin keyways fit and work properly in LSDA L100 lever sets?
A: You'd have to contact someone that sells LSDA locks but they should fit okay. James www.jmlock.com ...
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| recalcitrant deadbolt | 9/5/2007 |
Q: I've lubricated my lock, but when I insert the key, it goes in real smooth to a certain point. Then ...
A: The bolt hitting the strike plate won't cause the key to get stuck. Your key may have become bent ...
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| recalcitrant deadbolt | 9/4/2007 |
Q: I've lubricated my lock, but when I insert the key, it goes in real smooth to a certain point. Then ...
A: There could be a ridge on the first or second cut of your key. This stops the pins from riding up ...
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| Rekey all existing to match new deadbolt | 9/4/2007 |
Q: James - I would appreciate your input on whether my existing 6 keyed alike entrance and deadbolt ...
A: If you are referring to the tacks that go over the mounting screws, they are hard to remove and have ...
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| Rekey all existing to match new deadbolt | 9/3/2007 |
Q: James - I would appreciate your input on whether my existing 6 keyed alike entrance and deadbolt ...
A: They can be keyed the same since they use the same keyway. It will take about a hour to install ...
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| Rekeying skeleton locks | 9/1/2007 |
Q: I am remodeling my historic home and have dozens of interior doors with skeleton locks but no keys. ...
A: You'll have to find a locksmith in your area that can work on those. That type of lock is difficult ...
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| Door latch tongues stuck | 9/1/2007 |
Q: I have an older home and many of the doors to rooms and closets won't stay closed because the ...
A: The springs may be worn out or the mechanism may be dirty. First try pushing the latch all the way ...
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| Front Entry Handle Set | 8/31/2007 |
Q: I need to replace the Weiser Handle set the builders used for my double front doors. I want a ...
A: Kwikset makes one called Gibson. It has a single cylinder deadbolt and a locking thumbpiece. You ...
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| 4 numbers | 8/30/2007 |
Q: which do turn numbers to open my safe
A: As stated prior to your asking, I don't answer safe questions so I'm not 100% sure on the first ...
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| locked filing cabinet | 8/29/2007 |
Q: My company bought a fire proof filing cabinet. The cabinet was delivered locked with no keys. The ...
A: Open your yellow pages to Locks & Locksmiths and find a locksmith company that services safes. They ...
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| Mastering Locks | 8/29/2007 |
Q: I'm a maintenance director at a charter school with a bad key system. I have some experience in ...
A: You need to master key 70 locks to one key and have each of the 70 have their own keys? Get a ...
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| Fair pricing, appropriate action? | 8/28/2007 |
Q: I recently had the lock on the door to my apartment break when I returned home. (Insert key, turn ...
A: Without knowing what type of lock you have, what time this occurred and what the locksmith rates are ...
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| Automatic Deadbolt lock | 8/27/2007 |
Q: Is there such a thing as an automatical deadbolt lock available on the market? The problem is that ...
A: If you have a locking knob or lever, replace it with a non-locking version. If your tenants aren't ...
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| front door jammed shut | 8/22/2007 |
Q: since i moved into my house the front door lock has always been awkward to open, however I have ...
A: It may not be lining up with the door frame & strike plate. Try lifting, pushing or pulling on the ...
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| Larson storm door lock | 8/21/2007 |
Q: We purchased a Larson storm door. It came with two keys. We need another key made. Went to two ...
A: Sometimes the length of the key is not the problem. A longer key copy can work in a lock that you ...
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| Larson storm door lock | 8/21/2007 |
Q: We purchased a Larson storm door. It came with two keys. We need another key made. Went to two ...
A: The locksmiths need to cut them by code. I'm not sure what a Wright 2211 key looks like but the ...
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| Baldwin Deadbolt | 8/16/2007 |
Q: I changed out our old deadbolt with a baldwin (keyed on one side). The deadbolt works fine with the ...
A: You have installed the tailpiece incorrectly. Remove the mounting screws from the inside piece then ...
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| Rekeying/altering a Kwikset Ultimate | 8/16/2007 |
Q: Is it possible with a Double Cylinder Grade 1 Kwik-Set ultimate to put an Abloy disklock-pro ...
A: Because of the way Kwikset locks are made, it's not possible to do what you ask. If your deadbolts ...
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| Proper deadbolt installation | 8/15/2007 |
Q: I rent an apartment that for the past 4 years had a deadbolt and doorknob lock. The property ...
A: Using a non-locking knob is better in my opinion since the only way to get locked out is if you lose ...
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| Two locked steamer trunks. | 8/13/2007 |
Q: My mom recently bought two steamer trunks at a garage sale and then my brother and I accidentally ...
A: Take them to a locksmith to get serviced. That will save you a service fee (which could be $60 or ...
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| OLD lock disassembly? | 8/13/2007 |
Q: The front door lock is getting tired. At this time the deadbolt part is a real problem should she ...
A: The last time I serviced one of those locks, the lady called me to come back 2 days later because it ...
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| Key in lock | 8/13/2007 |
Q: I have trouble getting the key into the lock to unlock the door and also have the same problem ...
A: Spray some lubricant into the key hole then insert your key and turn it. Remove it, wipe it off ...
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| locked bathroom door | 8/11/2007 |
Q: My bathroom door is locked from the inside. I believe it is a push-in lock, but it may be the kind ...
A: Is there any hole on the trim piece next to the knob? A locksmith can get you in but there's almost ...
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| keys stuck in lock | 8/11/2007 |
Q: I just had duplicate keys made for the front door of my home. While testing one of the duplicates, ...
A: Keys made by anyone other than a locksmith can cause problems. If they don't work easily in the ...
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| key stuck in lock | 8/11/2007 |
Q: I am a renter and had noticed over the past week, maybe two at the most, that it was becoming ...
A: First, look at your key. There are 5 cuts on the key. Each cut is separated by a ridge. If any of ...
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| REPLACED Security Screen Door Key Lock in perfect working order NOW suddenly unlockable ... | 8/10/2007 |
Q: REPLACED Security Screen Door Key Lock in perfect working order NOW suddenly unlockable ... The ...
A: Have you tried inserting either lock and trying your key before reinstalling the set screw? You may ...
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| Old skeleton entry door lock | 8/10/2007 |
Q: I accidentally pushed the wrong button on the side of the lock mechanism on an old skeleton key ...
A: You need a key, or a locksmith. Those are impossible to open without damaging the door or the lock ...
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| locked bathroom door | 8/9/2007 |
Q: My bathroom door is locked from the inside. I believe it is a push-in lock, but it may be the kind ...
A: Think about how you lock the door from the inside. Is the button on the knob or on the trim piece ...
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| key all alike | 8/8/2007 |
Q: I BOUGHT 4 YALE LOCKSETS AT A YARD SALE (NEW. I HAVE LOCK SET KIT, HOW DO YOU KEY THEM ALL ALIKE. ...
A: Please refrain from using ALL CAPS. Disassemble the locks, dump the old pins, insert a new key into ...
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| Removing Deadbolt | 8/8/2007 |
Q: We are changing out all of the locks in the home we purchased last year. All have been straight ...
A: Some newer deadbolts use a cover plate on the inside cylinder with double cylinder deadbolts, such ...
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| Removing deadbolt in order to rekey | 8/6/2007 |
Q: I was able to remove the deadbolts and cylinders (identical to the one I'm about to talk about) to 2 ...
A: It could be that the tailpiece is bent - that's the part that goes through the bolt mechanism. Some ...
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| kwickset bedroom lock removal | 8/6/2007 |
Q: there are no screws to remove. the outside knob has a hole in the center. with a screwdriver I was ...
A: On the inside knob or lever should be a small hole that is on the thinner part toward the door face. ...
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| Schlage indoor privacy locks | 8/6/2007 |
Q: Our bedrooms & baths have what appear to be Schlage push button privacy locks. However, when the ...
A: Operate the lock with the door open. Push the button in then try the outside handle. If it unlocks ...
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| Stuck latch, need to turn knob to close door | 8/5/2007 |
Q: I've got a Schlage lockset, front exterior door. Suddenly, for the first time ever today, when I ...
A: There should be 2 parts to the latch that you can see from the edge of the door. One is about 3/4" ...
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| Unlocking a dexter privacy lock | 8/5/2007 |
Q: My father accidentally closed the door to the guest bathroom while it was locked. I've tried using ...
A: Think about how you lock the door when you are inside. Do you push in on a button or turn one to ...
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| substituting lock cylinder | 8/5/2007 |
Q: James I have a customer with a worn out titan ...
A: An UltraMax is the next generation Titan. Kwikset no longer makes the Titan. Most locks, such as ...
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| Schlage Privacy Push Button Lock Stuck | 8/4/2007 |
Q: we have 3 of the Schlage Orbit Privacy locks in our home (all push button). I'm not sure what has ...
A: The inside piece should turn, not push to lock. Depending on the model of lock you have (A, F, D ...
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| Re-keying locks | 8/4/2007 |
Q: We have 4 doors to the house. One is steel. I would like to have all the doors use the same key in ...
A: First of all I tell my customers to use a passage lock on their outside doors. They don't lock so ...
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| exterior door handle replacement, take off old set | 8/3/2007 |
Q: I have an exterior (back door) handle set I am trying to get off. The handle is round and is ...
A: I'm not sure that you need an allen wrench. Try depressing the retainer in the small hole and ...
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| schlege deadbolt | 8/2/2007 |
Q: I have a schlege deadbolt w/ two cylinders (keyed on both sides) and no screw holes to remove the ...
A: The trim piece is just sitting over the mouting screws. You'll have to pry it off, carefully as not ...
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| IDEAL SECURITY LOCK | 8/1/2007 |
Q: My question relates to the following that asked 10/30/06/ideal security lock. I think I have this ...
A: There are no locks similar to the Idea Security lock that most people still have unless you go with ...
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| How to pop out a lock cylinder | 8/1/2007 |
Q: I have a new Anderson storm door. The store said they could re-key it to match my entry door. I ...
A: Open the door. On the edge of the door is a set screw that is in line with the cylinder. Remove ...
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| Who pays to change the door lock? | 8/1/2007 |
Q: In California, I was in a roommate situation where my roommate ended up being a psycho. He stayed in ...
A: I'm not a lease expert nor am I a lawyer. My opinion is that if he told you he was paying for the ...
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| key won't open deadbolt | 8/1/2007 |
Q: I have an ASSA deadbolt. For some reason, the key will not open the lock. I can open it with the ...
A: Does the key turn in the unlock direction? If so, you have a problem with the connection between ...
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| can push down store front type lock | 7/31/2007 |
Q: I have a swinging door that has what I believe is called a store front lock. You turn the key and a ...
A: The lock isn't lined up with the hole in the frame properly. Open the door and lock it then try to ...
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| Repairing a Broken Deadbolt | 7/31/2007 |
Q: My deadbolt broke last night and the key is spinning when I turn it. Can I repair it without having ...
A: You can buy a new one at a locksmith or hardware store and have it keyed to your old key if you ...
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| Removing a handle | 7/31/2007 |
Q: I have a 30-year old house with Weslock handles on an interior door. The handles on both sides are ...
A: The slot should push in: you may need a thinner screwdriver or push harder. Check the other lever ...
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| Removing Schlage Entry Lock--Lost Key | 7/29/2007 |
Q: We have recently installed a new schlage keyed entry lock with separate dead bolt. The key set has ...
A: You can only remove a lock from the inside. You'll need to get it picked open if you are locked ...
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| deadbolt stuck and key slot destroyed | 7/29/2007 |
Q: I have an Anderson storm door with a brass lever handle and deadbolt (key outside, knob inside). We ...
A: You need to manually unlock it. After drilling the cylinder there is a stud that protrudes toward ...
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| control key | 7/28/2007 |
Q: I want to get a control key for a series of master-keyed Best locks I have. My local locksmith said ...
A: If you remove the pins yourself the locksmith can't decode them and they key will not work. You can ...
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| DOM ix dimple key | 7/28/2007 |
Q: I have a DOM ix deadbolt and I need 2 more keys made and can't find anyone with a machine to do so. ...
A: I don't know anyone in Denver or for that matter anyone outside of where I live now or used to live ...
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| Broken deadbolt | 7/27/2007 |
Q: About an hour ago I entered my house just fine with my key, just now by boyfriend tried his key in ...
A: The lock may need cleaning but if the lock isn't a name-brand, replace it with a Schlage, Kwikset or ...
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| Door Handle Latch | 7/27/2007 |
Q: I have a Yale door handle on my outside door that has a tongue like latch with a long handle under ...
A: Typically handlesets (what you have) with a thumbpiece for the latch break at that part and cannot ...
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| Door/lock Jiggles inside the door jam | 7/26/2007 |
Q: When my bedroom door is closed and my neighbors are walking heavily up above me, the door/lock moves ...
A: Inside the strike plate on the door jamb (the part the latch of the lock goes in to) there is a tab ...
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| Medeco thumb lock on lever handle | 7/24/2007 |
Q: I have a Medeco Eos lever handle with an inside thumb turn lock and key entry from the outside. When ...
A: This is a safety feature that a few manufacturers have on their knobs and levers. This is so if ...
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| Baldwin lock "transmission" | 7/23/2007 |
Q: My front door has a thumb lever that you push down with your thumb to enter the door. The lever ...
A: $300 is way too much. He should have replaced the entire lock for that much. Unless you live miles ...
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| bathroom door knob | 7/23/2007 |
Q: James..The door in the bathroom will not latch. Getting the old knob off is impossible! I am getting ...
A: The inside knob should have mounting screws. Remove those and the lock will pull off. If you see ...
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| Schlage Deadbolts | 7/23/2007 |
Q: I have several Schlage deadbolts that have worked just fine for years, but they are starting to ...
A: I recommend against using graphite. You may need to have new keys made. After a few years keys ...
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| old russwin lock | 7/22/2007 |
Q: I want to rekey an old russwin lock but I can not get the outside handle off. There is a small ...
A: Once the inside lever is removed, remove the inside trim plate if there is one. The outside lever ...
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| Travel Trailer Locks | 7/21/2007 |
Q: How do I Identify the Lock Cylinder in My Entry Function Locks on my Travel Trailer? I would like ...
A: On the edge of the door is a plate that surrounds the latch. Usually that has the name of the ...
|
| abus lock trouble | 7/20/2007 |
Q: i have unfortunatly snapped the key to my abus lock in the lock, the model of the pad lock is (i ...
A: The back of the lock should have a small hole. Insert a small probe, such as a small drill bit, ...
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| PACK RATTING | 7/18/2007 |
Q: I KEEP ALMOST EVERYTHING. WHEN WE MOVED IN AND CHANGED THE LOCKS ON THE DOORS, I KEPT THE BOX TOP ...
A: That code is to match other locks of the same brand and model to your new ones so if you want to add ...
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| Storm door handle hitting deadbolt | 7/15/2007 |
Q: I recently installed a Larson storm door on the front of my house. After installation, I realized ...
A: You have 2 options: 1. Remove the storm door and reverse the direction of the opening; or 2. Move ...
|
| Locking Doorknob | 7/15/2007 |
Q: I just installed an Emtek locking doorknob. Everything works fine but the inside button lock does ...
A: Schlage, Emtek and Baldwin use a panic exit feature on their knobs and levers. This means that the ...
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| Weiser doble keyed deadbolt | 7/15/2007 |
Q: I am changing out my deadbolt and i cannot figure how to remove the old one. There are no screws or ...
A: Some deadbolts have a cover over the inside cylinder which covers the mouting screws. Others you ...
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| broken screw in deadbolt | 7/14/2007 |
Q: I am trying to change out old locks in a home I just purchased and two of the deadbolts have screws ...
A: Go to your local hardware store or home center and look for a stripped screw remover. It has an ...
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| Transponder Car Keys | 7/12/2007 |
Q: I recently wanted an extra key for my 20004 Jeep Grand Cherokee. I purchased two replacement keys ...
A: The Strattec keys are generally better when it comes to VATS or PASS keys. I've not heard of them ...
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| Installing a deadbolt on a steel framed door | 7/10/2007 |
Q: Okay...a buddy of mine bought a condo and there was no deadbolt lock installed on the door. So, he ...
A: Mark the location of the bolt on the frame and drill a 1" hole using a bimetal hole saw through the ...
|
| Hon lateral file cabinet lock | 7/9/2007 |
Q: I purchased a used 2-drawer HON (1994 model - 2000 Series) that did not come with a key. I was able ...
A: Lateral cabinets are hard to diagnose. If the cabinet had a lock in it when you got it, the bar ...
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| Changing Locks on New Home | 7/9/2007 |
Q: I am about to close on a new home, and I want to change the locks on the same day. There are four ...
A: Again that depends on how many locks you have (counting cylinders) and how much they charge for a ...
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| Changing Locks on New Home | 7/9/2007 |
Q: I am about to close on a new home, and I want to change the locks on the same day. There are four ...
A: A locksmith will charge you a service call in addition to the cost to rekey the lock cylinders. The ...
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| Locksmith as a career | 7/9/2007 |
Q: I have been interested in locks and security as a hobby as far back as I can remember. I have ...
A: You are close enough that the need for a locksmith is there but you starting one needs to be looked ...
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| Schlage Lock Stuck | 7/8/2007 |
Q: We have a Schlage door knob/dead bolt set recently purchased from Home Depot. The door knob lock is ...
A: Schlage locks always turn left to lock, right to unlock with the key, even upside down. Assembling ...
|
| Key Broken Off In File Cabinet Lock | 7/7/2007 |
Q: The key broke off inside the lock of the top drawer of my 2-drawer (compressed wood) file cabinet ...
A: You'll need a very small drill bit. Keys are made of brass so a magnet doesn't work. Insert the ...
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| locksmith | 7/6/2007 |
Q: i was wondering how would i go about to see if my community can support a locksmith or another ...
A: It's hard to know a good way to do that. You can start by asking some of the businesses that you ...
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| Plastic sheet to Open Yale Locks | 7/5/2007 |
Q: I'm looking for the name of the plastic sheet that can be used to open Yale locks without the key. ...
A: From what I know the item you are referring to will open most locks unless the deadlatch is active. ...
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| deadbold removal | 7/3/2007 |
Q: I'm trying to replace our front door lock and door handle. the handle seem ok though I didn't do ...
A: I need more information and photos if you can. Are there any markings on the lock like a logo or a ...
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| Spindle won't come out of latch | 7/2/2007 |
Q: I replaced a lockset on my back door a few years ago without a problem. This morning I tried to ...
A: The latch may be broken. If you purchased the lock from a hardware store or home center it's ...
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| Entry lock for mixed residential/commercial | 7/2/2007 |
Q: I have a four-family brownstone for which I need to choose a new exterior entry lock set. I'm not ...
A: A deadlock is the whole assembly that is normally referred to as a deadbolt, which is actually just ...
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| Entry lock for mixed residential/commercial | 6/30/2007 |
Q: I have a four-family brownstone for which I need to choose a new exterior entry lock set. I'm not ...
A: Typically a handleset is a handle with a thumbpiece which is attached to a springlatch which holds ...
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| Which is the better brand? | 6/28/2007 |
Q: James, I ran to Home Depot yesterday to get a feel for the different lock brands. The three that ...
A: First off, Home Depot is a hardware store, not locksmiths and that is who you should buy locks from. ...
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| ideal security door lock | 6/28/2007 |
Q: Ihave and entry door ideal security lock set. It has a lever handle with a vertical dead bold lock. ...
A: The closest thing to what you have is made my Segal and can be found at most locksmiths and harware ...
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| Anderson Storm door lock -- Schlage compatible | 6/27/2007 |
Q: I have a Anderson storm door lock that I am trying to get rekeyed but the person in Home Depot ...
A: Those locks are hard if not impossible to rekey. You may be better off buying a new lock from a ...
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| Titan deadbolt removal | 6/26/2007 |
Q: How to do it? I've pulled the screws from the inside but something is still locking the outside ...
A: There are 2 sets of screws on those deadbolts. Small ones that hold the inside plate and those ...
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| Jammed entry lock | 6/26/2007 |
Q: I have an entry door lock that has jammed. Twisting the knob does not open the lock. I've removed ...
A: The latch mechanism may be broken. First try pushing or pulling or even lifting on the door as you ...
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| Change lock | 6/25/2007 |
Q: I have an apartment to rent and the last tenants left with the keys. I managed to change the lock on ...
A: That lock should use 2 rim cylinders and you can get replacements from most locksmiths. Removing it ...
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| Adams Rite Lock | 6/24/2007 |
Q: I recently purchased a building. There is an Adams Rite lock on one of the doors. The lock doesn't ...
A: Remove the trim plate on the outside edge of the door (should be 3 screws on a bolt; 2 screws if ...
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| Broken Deadbolt | 6/23/2007 |
Q: My Front door deadbolt is broken. The key will spin on the lock side of the deadbolt, but the ...
A: Those clips are available at a locksmith. Kwikset locks are notorious for breaking those clips and ...
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| removing lock cylinder from kwik lock ext. door set | 6/21/2007 |
Q: James: I am trying to re key a kwik set exterior lock.(twist lock on one end , keyed on the ...
A: You need a Kwikset removal tool. It's the only way to remove those, unless you have the newer ...
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| replacing Kwikset entry door lock | 6/18/2007 |
Q: I need to replace the locks to my front door. Now has a Kwikset handle and a Defiant bolt. Both are ...
A: Replacing a Kwikset handleset is not easy when you want to use another brand or even another style ...
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| lost keys | 6/17/2007 |
Q: I have two items - an old cedar chest and an old metal mailbox - and I've lost the keys for both. ...
A: The chest may use a standard furniture key. Go to a locksmith shop and ask them for a National ...
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| door knob with no visible screws | 6/15/2007 |
Q: I am trying to replace an exterior door knob. The latch plate says National Lock. It is a push ...
A: Your door may be thicker than normal and that causes the release pin hole to be inset into the rose ...
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| Found key | 6/13/2007 |
Q: My sister's husband just passed away and we found 3 keys that a local locksmith has identified as ...
A: I haven't dealt with those locks before so I wouldn't know even what brand of lock or key you have. ...
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| broken deadbolt | 6/11/2007 |
Q: I have a Shlage front door deadbolt. Our key will not unlock the deadbolt, neither will the manual ...
A: Lift, push or pull on the door while turning the thumbturn (manual lever). The door may have ...
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| Kwickset lock | 6/8/2007 |
Q: I am unable to remove the inside knob in order to tighten the lock assembly in the door. Kwikset ...
A: Go to: http://www.kwikset.com/Support/default.aspx# Then find the model of Kwikset you have. From ...
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| broke my deadbolt | 6/8/2007 |
Q: So I recently bought a basic lockpicking kit; thought it was kinda cool. When I first got it I guess ...
A: You're going to need to take it apart and repin it. If you don't have the tools yourself you'll ...
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| locksmith training in terms of overall information security | 6/6/2007 |
Q: I am currently in the field of computer network security, and am interested in branching out in an ...
A: Some states require certification so check with your state's business office. Local cities and ...
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| Schlage "storage" lever lock | 6/6/2007 |
Q: I am working on a Schlage lever storage lock. The problem is the whole lock is loose in the door and ...
A: You'll have to remove the inside handle to access the mounting screws. The release pin sometimes ...
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| turning the lock over | 6/4/2007 |
Q: I just installed Kwikset Doorknobs on all of our exterior doors and had them all keyed the same. ...
A: Unfortuantely you can't change the direction of the cylinders without a Kwikset tool. If you can ...
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| Kwikset Handle sets | 6/3/2007 |
Q: I work for builders first source of Jacksonville, Florida for 18 years as a service tech servicing ...
A: Are you referring to the tiny ball bearings used in construction keying? If so, the cause of the ...
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| Abus padlock | 6/3/2007 |
Q: I own several Abus padlocks. They are the kind that can be keyed to a regular schlage key... I've ...
A: It sounds like they weren't assembled correctly from the start. Since they come sub-assembled from ...
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| Kwikset lever for front door | 6/2/2007 |
Q: I have a Kwikset front door lever. It is loose right now. There are no screw heads visible. I ...
A: I can't get the Kwikset site to cooperate. Click the following link and search for Category of ...
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| Armored Security Strike | 6/2/2007 |
Q: James, I'm trying to find an "armored security strike" (that's what Defender calls them) for a ...
A: I've not heard of "Defender" brand. I recommend a 4" or larger strike for deadbolts in wood frames. ...
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| Lock installation | 6/1/2007 |
Q: I just got to my new apartment and I needed to purchase a lock for the door, so being the thrifty ...
A: Install the keyed cylinder with the small plate that has 1 larger hole and 2 smaler ones. The plate ...
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| Lever Lock | 5/31/2007 |
Q: Please call me at 702-604-3498 if you get this right away. I understand it hast to have a key ...
A: As you stated, you are aware that the lock cylinder must be turned in order to depress the retaining ...
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| 1950s weiser entry handle set | 5/31/2007 |
Q: James, I would like to know if parts are available somewhere for a 1950s Weiser entry handle set. It ...
A: I don't recommend Weiser and don't know of any parts available. They are junk locks in my opinion. ...
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| jamed dead bolt | 5/30/2007 |
Q: the deadbolt is jammed and the door is locked and can't be opened.I removed the knob and the key ...
A: Lift up or push down on the door while you turn the deadbolt with a screwdriver (the lock is removed ...
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| stuck door handleset | 5/23/2007 |
Q: Not sure if you can help me or not. I have Titan handleset on my front door. It gets direct ...
A: The thumbpiece that operates the latch mechanism is wearing out and eventually will either break off ...
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| lost keys | 5/22/2007 |
Q: I have lost my keys to my pvc front door. It is a standard council house door. Do i just drill the ...
A: If you have a single-sided lock you can remove the set screw in the side of the door then turn the ...
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| Harloc replacement | 5/15/2007 |
Q: I have Harloc entry door handle hardware. I want to replace them. I have tried to stain the doors ...
A: If you're talking about a handleset where you have a long handle that attaches at the latch area and ...
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| Kwikset deadlatch | 4/27/2007 |
Q: I have a kwikset entry and the deadlatch will not move out of the door frame enough for the door to ...
A: Try pushing the door so that the whole latch goes into the hole. Once its in there, use a small ...
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| kwikset deadbolt won't budge! | 4/24/2007 |
Q: I am trying to remove a kwickset deadbolt (key on both sides). I removed the two screws on the ...
A: Sometimes locks get painted on or if the door gets hot from direct sun, the paint or other finish ...
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| english door hardware | 4/23/2007 |
Q: I am soon going to be moving to the US from England, and am wanting to bring some nice door handles ...
A: It's unlikely that European lock handles will fit US style locks. The US market uses inches and ...
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| door handles | 4/23/2007 |
Q: my little girl has just pulled the handle off my front door everything else is ok its just the ...
A: If your child pulled the handle off, it's time to replace it with a better one. If a child can do ...
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| Removing a Kwikset Deadbolt | 4/22/2007 |
Q: My husband are attempting to replace our Kwikset Deadbolt on our front door. It is keyed only from ...
A: I'm not aware of any Kwikset deadbolt that has a plate on the inside, besides the thumbturn plate. ...
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| Ideal Security Super Guard II | 4/20/2007 |
Q: Last night, the interior lever (handle) of our front door lockset, which is an "Ideal Security Super ...
A: The locksmith is correct. There are no replacement parts to be able to repair that lock. The only ...
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| Help needed to make doorlock unlockabe | 4/14/2007 |
Q: Please kindly advise. We lost the key to a storeroom door. As we don't want it to be accidentally ...
A: You'll have to replace the lock with one that doesn't lock, or have the existing one rekeyed so ...
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| Harloc entry door | 4/11/2007 |
Q: I recently purchase a house and changed the cylinders on my entry doors' dead bolts. The front door ...
A: You'll need to remove the entire lock and replace it with something better, like Schlage. Harloc is ...
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| safe combination | 4/8/2007 |
Q: My stepfather passed away and left numbers for a safe combination of a Meilink safe but do not know ...
A: The indicator you need to use is the one at 12 o'clock. The other one is for changing the ...
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| medeco deadbolt removal | 4/4/2007 |
Q: my memory is shot, i guess. i have a medeco deadbolt, keyed outside, thumb inside. trim ring both ...
A: Should be a set screw on the thumbpiece, remove it and the thumbturn should come off. The cylinder ...
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| medeco deadbolt removal | 4/4/2007 |
Q: my memory is shot, i guess. i have a medeco deadbolt, keyed outside, thumb inside. trim ring both ...
A: I haven't installed a Medeco in a while but I think it's simliar to a Lori deadbolt. Remove the ...
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| front door key sticking | 4/2/2007 |
Q: My front door locks are having trouble accepting my key without some work in jiggling the key in the ...
A: Take your key to a locksmith and have them make a new one from code. Keys are made of brass and ...
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| schlage double sided deadbolt | 3/31/2007 |
Q: how can I tighten the deadbolt, it has gotton lose on the door and shifts when in use thakyou
A: Remove the screws from the edge of the door around the bolt. If the plate can be removed there ...
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| deadbolt | 3/24/2007 |
Q: I am trying to remove a deadbolt but there doesn't appear to be any screws on either side. any ...
A: There could be a removeable face on the inside part or it could be a deadbolt that uses mortise ...
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| schlage dual cylinder deadbolt and schlage F lockset | 3/22/2007 |
Q: JAMES I WENT OUT ON ONE OF MY FIRST COMMERCIAL JOBS TODAY. THINGS DID NOT GO SO WELL AND ACTUALLY I ...
A: http://consumer.schlage.com/pdf/RekeyInst.pdf ...
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| frozen vehicle doors (not locks!) | 3/19/2007 |
Q: I'm writing to ask what locksmits do when they get calls about frozen vehicle doors ... not frozen ...
A: I haven't opened cars in quite a few years and never came across that problem. Generally the lock ...
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| Key Blanks | 3/17/2007 |
Q: I duplicate keys on my job (apt. maintenance) and use the specified WR5 blanks for our Weiser ...
A: Acutally Weiser has 5 different blanks all with the same milling. They just have different bows and ...
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| locks | 3/5/2007 |
Q: I maintain a fleet of mail trucks in northern Illinois. 3 locks per truck. No matter what we use , ...
A: Unfortunately the only way to combat ice in locks is what you are doing already. If you had a way ...
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| cylinder plug removal | 3/2/2007 |
Q: It is a schlage double deadboltHello, I have a problem removing the cylinder plug from the housing. ...
A: You can pick the lock open or use a key blank and a shim. The other alternative is to remove the ...
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| Schlage Lockset/Handle is Loose | 2/20/2007 |
Q: The handles on the front door to my 4-year old condomium are coming loose. As far as I can tell, the ...
A: The 9044 is a Grade 1 Mortise Privacy lock with a coin turn piece on the outside. This lock is ...
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| locksmith training | 2/5/2007 |
Q: Can you pls tell me about a good traning school in southhern California? Thank you, Rafael
A: I'm not aware of any training schools anywhere, other than correspondence courses, of which there ...
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| impressioning | 2/3/2007 |
Q: my question is about impressioning a key, instead of using files to make the cuts, can you use some ...
A: If you use a machine for impressioning you will most certainly cut too much off the key and have to ...
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| broken key | 1/30/2007 |
Q: i wonder if you could help me please. there is a key broken in the lock of my bedroom window and i ...
A: You need a very small drill bit. Insert the bit between the key and the lock and thread it in until ...
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| cylinder removal | 1/19/2007 |
Q: I have a schlage rekeyable padlock. I opened the lock and removed the screw located in the open ...
A: Sorry for the delay in responding. I'm without phone and internet at this time due to a storm. The ...
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| locked child's bedroom door | 1/12/2007 |
Q: Help! My granddaughter's bedroom door (rental home) sometimes sticks. Wasn't a big deal until now. ...
A: If the knob is off the door you should be able to move the latch manually with a screwdriver. If ...
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| Broken Commercial Lock | 1/10/2007 |
Q: I own a business and it turns out the lock on one of my front doors is broken. The lock will turn ...
A: I have emailed you a response to your direct email to me earlier. You have an Adams Rite hookbolt ...
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| Schlage lock problem | 1/9/2007 |
Q: I bought a Schlage entry lockset and deadbolt two years ago, keyed the same. Now the entry lock has ...
A: Sounds like a spring is broken or part of where the spring sets is. Schlage has a 3 year warranty ...
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| Front Door lock problem | 1/8/2007 |
Q: I have front porch and my problem is with the inner door. It seems to have two locks, one is a bolt ...
A: Sounds like you have a 3-point lock. Sometimes the mechanism that the vertical rods are attached to ...
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| lost key | 1/6/2007 |
Q: I have now lost the 2nd lawn mower key, they are very small after all.... The mower was bought 2nd ...
A: Contact a mower dealer in your area that sells MTD mowers. You may not find them at a home center ...
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| Weiser Masterkey Question | 1/6/2007 |
Q: When masterkeying a weiser single cylinder deadbolt I have been using the regular formula of ...
A: You have it slightly wrong. It's not the master key minus the regular key. To determine the pins, ...
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| Door has no handle | 12/31/2006 |
Q: the door to my apartment was made without a handle so the key is used instead, the problem is I've ...
A: Most double cylinder locks aren't interconnected but I'm not familiar with Euro locks so they could ...
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| Clarification of a previous response | 12/31/2006 |
Q: In a question on deadbolt installation on metal doors and jambs you stated the following: "If you ...
A: Yes, you will not need to indent the door edge if you have enough room between the door and jamb. ...
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| Curio Cabinet Lock | 12/30/2006 |
Q: James, I have a curio cabinet that is locked. I have the key but it will not work to unlock the ...
A: You'll have to check inside the keyhole for any obstruction. It's unlikely that someone using the ...
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| Amerock deadbolt replacement | 12/29/2006 |
Q: I have old Amerock deadbolt locks on the exterior doors of my 30 year old house. These are the ...
A: If the plate on the edge of the door that surrounds the bolt can be removed, there should be 2 small ...
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| open store room door | 12/21/2006 |
Q: I have a store room that is separate from the carport. It has the circuit breaker panel in it and ...
A: Try sliding a credit card between the door and jamb. If you don't want to destroy a valid credit ...
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| stuck deadbolt | 12/19/2006 |
Q: The bolt for the lock is stuck and will not open. I took the lock off the inside of the door. How do ...
A: It may be jammed against the strike. Pull or push on the door while you turn the mechanism with a ...
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| key jammed in mortise lock | 12/16/2006 |
Q: Key is jammed at a slight angle into mortise lock in bathroom door. May even be wrong key (it really ...
A: I haven't done much work with older style mortise locks. The best I can suggest would be to try to ...
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| Faultless Knobset Rekey | 12/14/2006 |
Q: I'm a property owner that uses Kwikset locks, and am use to rekeying those. I bought some Faultless ...
A: The Faultless locks I've dealt with come apart simliar to Kwikset unless the knob has a hole in the ...
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| Rekeying a common area door | 12/13/2006 |
Q: Grand mastering sounds like what I would ideally like to do. I checked with a couple local ...
A: Just to clarify something: A cylinder is the item in the lock that turns when you insert the proper ...
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| Rekeying locks | 12/13/2006 |
Q: We have a deadbolt (requires akey on both sides) and a doorknob lock on all exterior doors. They ...
A: I advise all my customers to key all their locks the same to eliminate any possible problems with ...
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| interior door knob latch frozen | 12/13/2006 |
Q: The door between bathrooms shut and froze. We can't get the door knob to open it, have removed the ...
A: You'll have to destroy it to remove it. Pliers, a hammer and a cold chisel or flat head screwdriver ...
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| Rekeying a common area door | 12/12/2006 |
Q: I just moved into a condo that is one floor of a two-story house. Each condo has its own front door ...
A: Your key opens your door only and your neighbor's key opens their door only. To make your key work ...
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| i lost my car keys | 12/11/2006 |
Q: I have lost my car keys, and i have no spare..my car is a mercedes benz e320 model (1999); the ...
A: If you can get a key from the dealer you purchased the car from they just need the VIN. A MB new ...
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| locksmith business | 12/7/2006 |
Q: I was tired of being under paid and under appreciated, but over worked! So now I'm a CL who's ...
A: It's hard to know what the going rates for services are in any area unless you call a few of your ...
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| Installing a deadbolt | 12/3/2006 |
Q: My door is actually wood, rather than metal, does this change the procedure? Thanks for you help, I ...
A: Solid wood doors still need to be drilled at low speed or the saw will gunk up. If your frame is ...
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| Installing a deadbolt | 12/3/2006 |
Q: I have a regular, commerical door with a basic lock and want to upgrade to a deadbolt. My two main ...
A: Please print this and read the whole thing before attempting to perform this task. Since most ...
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| Schlage inside lever removal | 11/28/2006 |
Q: I have a commercial Schlage lock w/deadbolt. The inside/outside levers are coming lose from each ...
A: The hole in the lever near the door has a retainer clip behind it. Depress it and pull the lever ...
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| locksmith video school or others | 11/27/2006 |
Q: my question is,why does locksmith video school or any other schools say after you take their ...
A: They want your money. Every business wants your money. It is mostly true that you can start your ...
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| Master Shrouded Padlock Jammed | 11/24/2006 |
Q: I have a Master Titanium-reinforced shrouded padlock on my garage door. It's model number 185XD, I ...
A: This type of padlock cannot operate properly if the shackle is jammed against the hasp since it has ...
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| Mastering a Weiser Deadbolt | 11/24/2006 |
Q: I work in apt. maintenance and have been learning how to master deadbolts. The existing locks are ...
A: There is no #1 master pin for most locks, including Weiser. Weiser locks are not the best for ...
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| Lost key for the file cabinet | 11/20/2006 |
Q: I lost the key of the file cabinet during the moving. It is metal and old. How should I open it? ...
A: Open the yellow pages to the locksmith section and have one of them come out to either replace the ...
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| Kwikset Entry Latch stuck | 11/20/2006 |
Q: How do I get the latch out.... I only have access to it through the hold where the handles went.I ...
A: You need a hammer and a cold chisel. A pair of pliers helps too. Use the chisel to break apart the ...
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| residential metal door security | 11/15/2006 |
Q: I'm renting an old house that has a door that doesn't quite fit. The door jamb is wood. The door is ...
A: A deadbolt is the best option. The strike plate needs 3" screws to work best. I'm not sure what ...
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| Schlage Privacy Locks Pushbutton Stuck | 11/15/2006 |
Q: I have several Schlage privacy locks installed in my house. After a year of working fine, a few of ...
A: Locks require regular maintenance. Remove the locks from the door and verify that the latch ...
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| Key stuck in Titan Lock | 11/15/2006 |
Q: I unlocked my door but am now unable to get the key out. Any suggestions?
A: Make sure the key is in the 0 position (usually 12 o'clock). Push in on the part of the lock that ...
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| Medeco Tailpiece | 11/14/2006 |
Q: I have the page where I bought it from. There is a picture of the cylinder. I also still have the ...
A: It looks from the photo that the end of the cylinder has a C clip that will come off if you pry it. ...
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| Can't remove deadbolt | 11/13/2006 |
Q: We have a deadbolt that is likely original to our 1978 house. We were able to remove the interior ...
A: If your lock has a large plate on the edge of the door it's most likely a mortise lock. The ...
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| sentry safe | 11/12/2006 |
Q: where can I get A new handle for my sentry gun safe David
A: It wouldn't be worth while to replace any part of a Sentry safe since they are the cheapest safes ...
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| neede a arch | 11/12/2006 |
Q: I used bolt cutters to break a key best padlock and i want to repair the same lock have the same key ...
A: Some padlocks have rekeyable cylinders. If so, you should be able to remove the cylinder from the ...
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| Schlage Entry Lockset | 11/12/2006 |
Q: I just put in a new schlage lockset and it has an emergency panic free exit feature. Is there anyway ...
A: All standard commercial locks must be manufactured so that free egress to the outside of a building ...
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| Medeco Tailpiece | 11/11/2006 |
Q: I purchased a knob cylinder off ebay and there is a tailpiece inside it that I can't get out. It ...
A: Without a photo or more information I can't help much. C clips are sometimes used on cylinders and ...
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| Remote controlled keyless door lock | 11/9/2006 |
Q: I'm looking for a keyless door lock that can be activated, disabled, reset and otherwise controlled ...
A: Citadel by Logica should provide you with what you need. The Citdadel system is the software and a ...
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| schlage series of locks | 11/6/2006 |
Q: how do you tell if your lock is a "c" , "f", "s", series.
A: F series locks use a different type of cylinder than others. The spring cap is pushed away from the ...
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| Baldwin mortise deadbolt | 11/6/2006 |
Q: It will be later in the week before I can try to fix it. Before I installed it I did try the key in ...
A: Open the door and face the edge where the deadbolt is. In your hand that the outside of the door is ...
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| Latches | 11/5/2006 |
Q: What is the difference between a "dead latch" and a "spring latch"? What are each used for. The ...
A: A deadlatch is a latch that has a deadlocking action. Deadlatches incorporate 2 spring latches, the ...
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| loose deadbolt latch | 11/1/2006 |
Q: When I lock the lock and leave the door open, I touch the bolt outside of the door edge, I can feel ...
A: Almost every deadbolt will do that. As long as you can't push the bolt back in when you lock it ...
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| removal of double deadbolt lock | 11/1/2006 |
Q: I have a security storm door with a double key cylinder deadbolt lock. I need to remove the lock ...
A: Open the door. On the edge is a screw that is centered on the lock cylinder. Remove that screw, it ...
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| loose deadbolt latch | 11/1/2006 |
Q: James, I am a first time user here. I rekeyed my front door Schlage C deadbolt lock. I took out the ...
A: What part of the latch is loose? Is it the screws that hold it in? Schlage bolt mechanisms tend to ...
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| Russwin lock | 10/31/2006 |
Q: I got the knob off of the spindle. How do I remove the spindle. It does not go through the door to ...
A: Some spindles are split in the middle and each side turns independently from the other. When this ...
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| Dead Bolt Problem | 10/28/2006 |
Q: My tenant changed the locks on the house and abandoned the property. I served all the official ...
A: If a locksmith won't even try to pick the lock, find another locksmith. Destruction of any lock is ...
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| Medeco Deadbolt Removal | 10/23/2006 |
Q: I have a Medeco Deadbolt. It's looks kinda old. It has keys on both sides and has no visible ...
A: There are 2 possible ways to remove this lock: 1. Remove the screws on the edge of the door that ...
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| Arrow Deadbolt Removal | 10/21/2006 |
Q: My friend just separated from her husband and needs to replace the locks on her doors. Since I have ...
A: Insert a key into the inside cylinder and turn it. The holes that screws should be in will soon ...
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| Schlage key stuck | 10/17/2006 |
Q: James, This is about a new Schlage deadbolt (bought second hand but in new packaging). I went to ...
A: The lock is on the door? Remove the screws and remove the lock. Turn the key to the 12 o'clock ...
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| about foley-belsaw | 10/9/2006 |
Q: .james.. i just wanted to ask about taking a home-study course in locksmithing from ...
A: I took the Foley course and found it interesting but it only teaches some of what you need to know. ...
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| what is a good school to take for locksmithing | 10/9/2006 |
Q: ..i want to start a career in locksmithing but am not sure where or who is best...some companys ...
A: Coorespondence courses are generally the best starting point because they'll give you basic ...
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| changing knob covers | 10/7/2006 |
Q: It's a Kwikset Maximum. Can't find part # but to buy another whole set just for the knob would cost ...
A: You can't buy just the knobs or levers, you have to get the whole thing. Have you checked out ...
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| slam locks | 10/6/2006 |
Q: I currently have a mortise lock which needs to be replaced (gave out the key during renovation and ...
A: Mortise locks use a mortise cylinder that can be rekeyed or changed to any number of other keyways ...
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| Key stuck in Schlage deadbolt lock | 10/6/2006 |
Q: I recently installed a dual key entry Schlage deadbolt lock on my front door. I made the mistake of ...
A: Remove the lock from both sides of the door. Remove any keys. Insert a key into each cylinder and ...
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| key stuck in weiser deadbolt lock | 9/29/2006 |
Q: My key got stuck in the outside keyhole of a weiser deadbolt lock. I took the outside part off, the ...
A: Weiser locks aren't that great. I'd suggest upgrading to a Schlage which should fit the existing ...
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| Medeco Patriot system | 9/28/2006 |
Q: I have a question about the Medeco Patriot system. I've also heard of the Biaxial lock system. ...
A: If you buy any high security lock system that requires a signature card or other type of ...
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| cant get bolt out of wall/door | 9/25/2006 |
Q: My deadbolt between the garage and house jambed in the locked position. I have taken the knob off, ...
A: The bolt is installed with the door open so it's impossible to remove if you can't open the door, ...
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| Schlage interior deadbolt key just spins | 9/25/2006 |
Q: My bedroom door is locked but when I insert the key it just spins around. How do I get in it?
A: You'll have to find another way in or call a locksmith. You can try a cake icing spreader or a ...
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| changinga medco lock for another | 9/24/2006 |
Q: Have a personally owned private home. I want to change the current Medco lock for another Medco ...
A: It's possible that the lock is removed by removing the plate on the edge of the door and inserting a ...
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| Apartment door lock- | 9/20/2006 |
Q: I have a problem that just developed this morning with my apartment doorknob. The lock has a ...
A: Remove the lock from the door and replace it. This isn't something that can be fixed. I recommend ...
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| rekeying schlage lockset 'F51 v acc 505' | 9/19/2006 |
Q: i bought this schlage keyed entry lockset 'F51 v acc 505' from homedepot but i want it to unlock ...
A: A Schlage lock cannot be keyed the same as a Kwikset without the right cylinder. It's my ...
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| Titan door knobs | 9/17/2006 |
Q: I recently purchased Schlage locks for the entire house only to find out they don't fit. What ...
A: Cook, What is it about the Schlage locks that you purchased that keeps them from working on your ...
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| curio cabinet locked and key broke in lock | 9/16/2006 |
Q: My wife has a curio cabinet and the key broke in the lock the other day. How can I get the key out ...
A: Depending on what type of key it is you'll need some small probe tools and needle-nose pliers. ...
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| Rekeying | 9/14/2006 |
Q: Old tenant left. New tenant moved in. 2 lock setup: 1 deadbolt + 1 keyed knob (2 different keys) ...
A: Have both locks rekeyed to a new key, same key for both. Most locksmiths can do this for you. If ...
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| Schlage lock - unlock by jiggling the knob | 9/13/2006 |
Q: I just bought a new Schlage lock for a bathroom (model p513-500 ??). After installing it, I ...
A: Sounds like there's a problem with the lock. Return it to where you purchased it and request a ...
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| Changing a Schlage Key-in-Knob Cylinder. | 9/9/2006 |
Q: I hope to change the cylinder in my Schlage F51 knob and I need a starting place to disassemble the ...
A: Insert the existing key and turn it to stop. Insert a small probe tool into the hole that is either ...
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| 3 level masterkey | 9/7/2006 |
Q: you mentioned HPC's MasterKing software,how much and where can i get it?Any master key course ...
A: http://www.jmlock.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=298 or you can search using your ...
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| 3 level masterkey | 9/6/2006 |
Q: a question for you.For example i need to re-key cylinders up to 3 level,eg,grand mastekey goes to ...
A: I use HPC's MasterKing software. It saves a load of time. It sounds like you want User Key, Master ...
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| LOCKS | 9/5/2006 |
Q: HEY,IM HAVING TROUBLE TRYING TO MAKE A REGULAR KEY FROM A MASTERED KEY,I WORK AT A HOSPITAL;WE HAVE ...
A: It's possible to make a master key from a lock that's been mastered but without the right tools it's ...
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| Bump Keying; resistent locks. | 9/5/2006 |
Q: Just to be clear, I am not looking for information on how to bump key, I am adding a new lock to ...
A: If you are concerned about someone bumping your lock open then you need more than what a Medeco, ...
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| LOCKS | 9/4/2006 |
Q: HEY,IM HAVING TROUBLE TRYING TO MAKE A REGULAR KEY FROM A MASTERED KEY,I WORK AT A HOSPITAL;WE HAVE ...
A: Actually if your locks are master keyed, you would only need a master key for each set which would ...
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| Bump Keying; resistent locks. | 9/4/2006 |
Q: In a prior answer you indicated that Everest, along with other locks, would be resistent to key ...
A: Any lock with a sidebar would require a key that cooresponds to that sidebar or any attempt to bump ...
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| Patio Door stuck in locked position | 9/2/2006 |
Q: hope you can help. I have a sliding patio door which is locked shut. The lock has a lever which, ...
A: I haven't heard of this type of lock (using a key to fix it in place). Can you provide photos? Try ...
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| US Lock Double Cylinder Deadbolt Removal | 8/28/2006 |
Q: I recently moved into a house with US Lock double cylinder deadbolts. I'd like to remove and replace ...
A: If you have the Lori type of deadbolt (remove the faceplate from the edge, then use an Allen ...
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| Broken spindle, Titan lock | 8/28/2006 |
Q: I have a Titan keyed entry two knob lockset that was purchased in 1999. One day last week the key ...
A: Any Kwikset lock can use the same key as you have currently but you'll have to get the new one ...
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| I'm pulling my hair out... | 8/28/2006 |
Q: James, I'm so excited I found this site. I just spent 2 hours on this and need some help. I ...
A: Congratulations on completing your refinishing project. I did the same to a front door on a house ...
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| Ideal Security - Jimmy Proof Lock | 8/26/2006 |
Q: James, I saw that you've assisted several people in the past with Ideal Security locks. My house ...
A: As I suggested to the others with this same lock, insert your key into the inside cylinder and turn ...
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| Deadbolt removal | 8/25/2006 |
Q: My mother-in-law recently purchased a new home. Im helping her with various odd jobs around the ...
A: Sometimes metal tacks are used to cover the screw heads. Pop those off to access and remove the ...
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| Deadbolt lock | 8/24/2006 |
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