Expert: James - 6/12/2006

Question
I'm unable to open my apartment door to get out into the world.  I turn the knob, but the latching mechanism does not withdraw into the lock from the doorframe.  I thought this was only caused by a loose doorknob (it's been wiggly the past few days), so I tightened the two screws on the sides of the knob.  I was then able to hear what sounded like the mechanism withdrawing part way, and the knob stopped slipping, but I still couldn't get out.  I've now removed the knob as well as the face plate- is there something I can manipulate inside the lock/doorknob to release the latch?  
This is one of the old fashioned doorknobs with a keyhole on the outside, and little almost wing-nut shaped knob to turn above the doorknob on the inside, as well as the two buttons on the edge of the door that regulate being able to turn the exterior knob.  If you would like me to upload pictures of it all, let me know.

Thanks so much, in advance,

-Chris

Answer
Hello Chris,

Because of the way those locks are installed you can't perform normal methods to bypass the lock or latch.  You will have to get someone on the outside to try to open it.  Try inserting a credit card or other small stiff card between the door and jamb to push the latch back into the door - this can be done from either side of the door but works best on the side that the door goes to when closing (if the door opens in, the outside would be best).

Try removing the hinge pins and pulling the door off that way.  Then get your apartment manager to fix the problem, a new door and lock are most likely the only fixes.

It's unlikely that the regulating buttons on the side of the door are to blame.  These locks were put out of production many, many years ago because they are complicated to service and if they fail, you get stuck inside.

Destruction of the lock from both sides may be the only other recourse.

Good luck.

James
www.jmlock.com

P.S. The outside world isn't that great so if I were you, I'd call a grocery service to have food delivered through a window and get a job where you can work from home.  This way you never have to leave.