Maintenance & Repair Procedures Flashcards

After changing the combination on a safe lock, what should the locksmith do before closing the door?

Answer: Test the new combination several times with the door open

Testing several times with the door open confirms the new combination works and avoids a costly lockout.

What is required to remove an interchangeable core (IC) from its housing?

Answer: The control key

The control key turns to a separate shear line that retracts the control lug so the core can be pulled out.

A deadbolt doesn't fully extend when the door is closed, but it throws completely with the door open. What is the most likely fix?

Answer: Deepen or realign the strike pocket so the bolt can fully throw

A shallow or misaligned strike pocket stops the bolt from reaching full throw and deadlocking.

Right after a new cylindrical lockset is installed, the lever is hard to turn. What is a common cause?

Answer: Overtightened through-bolts or mounting screws are binding the chassis

Overtightened mounting screws squeeze the chassis and bind the internal parts, so they should be backed off slightly.

How can a locksmith remove a plug for rekeying without a follower or removing the cylinder retainer first?

Answer: Shim the plug by sliding shim stock between the plug and shell at the shear line

Thin shim stock wrapped around the plug at the shear line holds the top pins in the shell while the plug is pulled out.

On a surface vertical rod exit device, the top latch doesn't engage the top strike. What is the usual adjustment?

Answer: Adjust the top rod length or latch position

Vertical rod latches are tuned by adjusting rod length so the top latch projects and catches its strike correctly.

Why should graphite never be used in a lock that already contains oil?

Answer: The mixture forms a sludge that binds the pins

Graphite mixed with oil turns into a thick paste that clogs the pin chambers.