Solving Lockset Problems

Latch Sticks or Responds Slowly

Problem:

• Gummed up or dirty lock mechanism

Remedy:

• Blow a pinch of graphite into lock mechanism or keyway or inject light penetrating oil or silicone spray.

Key Doesn't Insert Smoothly

Problems:

• Dirty keyway and tumbler area
• Foreign object in keyway

Remedies:

• Blow a pinch of graphite or spray silicone spray into keyway (do not use oil.)
• Attempt to dislodge object with thin, stiff wire.

Lock is Frozen

Problem:

• Accumulated moisture frozen solid

Remedy:

• Chip ice from opening and carefully heat key with a match. Insert key in lock and work gently until ice melts.

Key is Broken in Lock

Problem:

• Improperly inserted key, ill-fitting replacement key or wrong key forced into lock.

Remedy:

• Remove broken key with thin, stiff hooked wire or with blade of a coping saw. If this doesn't work, remove lock cylinder and push key fragment out from other side with thin, stiff wire.

Latch Bolt Doesn't Engage or Disengage Easily

Problem:

• Door loose on hinges or otherwise misaligned

Remedy:

• Correct door problem and make any adjustments required to align latch bolt and strike plate.

Latch Bolt Doesn't Extend Fully into Strike Plate

Problems:

• Shrunken wood in door
• Shallow mortise or misaligned strike plate

Remedies:

• Shim out hinges or strike plate or both.
• Deepen mortise or reposition strike plate.

Key Won't Turn in Lock

Problems:

• Cylinder turned in face plate
• Poorly duplicated key
• Damaged tumblers

Remedies:

• Move cylinder to proper position.
• Check key against original. Replace if necessary.
• Replace cylinder or entire lockset.

Key Turns but Doesn't Operate Locking Mechanism

Problem:

• Broken lock mechanism

Remedy

• Repair or replace lockset.