Raynor Garage Door Rekey - Post Revisited from February 2019

 

Raynor Garage Door Lock - Rekeying Procedure Without New Tumblers

 We revisit this post today due to the increasing quantity of views over the last five years….

About 6 weeks ago we took a call from a customer who requested service that no one else would provide,

The customer has an old Raynor brand garage roller door on her garage and wanted to have the lock rekeyed.

This door is about 75 years old and all the companies she called (before me) would not work on the existing product, preferring to instead attempt to talk her into buying a new automatic roller door.

After becoming annoyed at not having her needs met, her search for service led her to find me.

This first image shows the Raynor Operating handle and key cylinder from the outside.

 You can see in this second image, the configuration of the inside mechanism and how the lock and handle attaches to the door.

The chains on each side are attached to spring loaded "latches" that firmly hold the door when closed, into the running tracks.

It is not necessary to remove the lever handle to work on the key cylinder, simply remove the four screws to pull the lock casing from the frame.

The rim cylinder is quite old and still functioning well for it's age even though it appears to be slightly corroded.

The tailpiece is secured with a roll pin through the back of the cylinder plug/barrel

Here is another view of the rear of the cylinder. You can see the roll pin sitting through the tailpiece and the back of the barrel

This is an image with the roll pin and tailpiece removed

This image shows the plug/barrel with each pin tumbler removed

 We set the plug up with the new keyblank inserted, into our vise after switching some tumblers around to "alter the combination" making it different to the original key.

Measuring the new key blank and the existing plug with the new combination pins correctly inserted

 Next, we marked each corresponding spacing of each pin tumbler using our impressioning file.

Using the impressioning file to "cut" the new key directly from the pinning

 A different angle shows the progress being made in forming the new key

 Slow and steady processes, are important to maintain meticulous and exact work. We only file a little at a time and constantly check and recheck our work, so we dont "mess" it up.

This helps to make sure we do not ever need to replace parts if we accidentally lost them because we wont.

Careful processes lead to positive results

The key is almost completed

 Constantly rechecking our work to ensure the best quality.

 The completed "new key" is the brass one. The old key is the silver one we are changing

Completed and rebuilt without the need to replace anything.


Now, you can purchase after market cylinders still for these doors, but I am old school and prefer to keep as much original as i can.

One reason is that manufactured items in previous years were often produced to a higher standard and designed to last.

Unlike many of the products found in the modern era that are deliberately made using inferior raw materials and streamlined processes that often punch out significantly greater quantities while giving up quality control, in the sole intention of making sure consumers are required to constantly be purchasing new and replacement parts. (thereby keeping manufacturers in business).



The art of the craft of locksmithery can be very interesting to us old time trades people. This is just another example of the types of requests we locksmiths receive.

Locksmith Industry News

 Locksmith industry news

The locksmith industry is undergoing significant transformation, driven by advancements in technology, changing consumer needs, and increased focus on sustainability. Here are the key trends shaping the locksmith landscape in 2024:

1. Technological Integration and Smart Locks

   •   Smart Locks and Biometric Systems: Demand for smart locks that use Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and biometric authentication (e.g., fingerprint or facial recognition) is rising. These systems offer enhanced security and user-friendly features like remote access via smartphones  .

   •   IoT-Enabled Security: Internet of Things (IoT) integration allows real-time monitoring and control of locks alongside other home automation features. This innovation caters to a growing market for interconnected security systems .

2. Cybersecurity in Locksmithing

   •   With the shift toward digital and keyless entry systems, locksmiths must address vulnerabilities in cybersecurity. Many professionals now offer services to protect against hacking and unauthorized access, using encryption and blockchain technology  .

3. Mobile Locksmith Services

   •   Convenience is a key factor driving the growth of mobile locksmithing. Customers prefer on-demand services for lockouts and repairs, prompting traditional locksmiths to expand their reach with mobile operations  .

4. 3D Printing and Customization

   •   The advent of 3D printing has made it easier to create intricate, custom lock components, reducing manufacturing costs and allowing locksmiths to offer more tailored solutions  .

5. Sustainability Efforts

   •   Eco-conscious practices, such as using recyclable materials and energy-efficient technologies, are gaining traction in locksmithing, aligning with broader consumer and industry shifts toward environmental responsibility .

6. Market Growth and Opportunities

   •   The global locksmith market is projected to grow significantly, with new opportunities in high-security locks, cybersecurity integration, and smart home solutions. Specialization and continued education will be vital for professionals to stay competitive  .

Locksmiths looking to thrive in 2024 and beyond must embrace these trends while focusing on innovation, customer satisfaction, and sustainability to meet evolving demands.

Development Of The Large Format Interchangeable Core

The development of the large format interchangeable core (LFIC) was a significant innovation in the field of lock security and convenience. It primarily aimed to address the need for scalable, versatile, and secure keying systems, particularly in environments like universities, hospitals, government buildings, and corporate campuses, where managing access across a large number of locks and users is a challenge. Here’s a brief overview of its development:

Origins of the Interchangeable Core Concept

1. Early Locking Systems: Traditional pin tumbler locks required a full disassembly of the lock cylinder to change the keying, a labor-intensive process.

2. Development of Small Format Interchangeable Core (SFIC): SFIC was introduced as a way to allow quick rekeying without disassembling the lock hardware. Manufacturers like Best Lock Corporation pioneered this design in the early 20th century.

Evolution to Large Format Interchangeable Core

1. Demand for Larger, More Robust Systems:

• SFIC had limitations in terms of durability and the ability to handle complex keying systems.

• For institutions requiring higher security and larger master keying systems, a more robust interchangeable core was necessary.

2. Design and Functionality:

• LFIC shares the same basic principle as SFIC: a removable core that can be easily swapped using a specialized control key.

• The larger size accommodates more robust internal components, better durability, and enhanced compatibility with high-security keyways.

3. Key Industry Players:

• Companies like Schlage, Sargent, Medeco, and ASSA ABLOY contributed to the development and proliferation of LFIC designs, each with proprietary features and security enhancements.

4. Benefits of LFIC:

• Ease of Rekeying: Facilities can rekey locks in seconds by swapping cores without specialized tools.

• Scalability: Supports complex master key systems with hundreds or thousands of locks.

• Security Features: Advanced LFICs include hardened steel inserts, restrictive keyways, and patented key control systems to prevent unauthorized duplication.

Current Applications and Future Trends

• Applications: LFIC systems are widely used in commercial, institutional, and government settings.

• Advancements:

• Integration with electronic and smart locks.

• Enhanced resistance to lock-picking, bumping, and drilling.

• Modular designs that allow integration with other locking technologies.

The development of LFIC was a pivotal step in modernizing lock systems, balancing ease of use with enhanced security. The development of the large format interchangeable core (LF

• Scalability: Supports complex master key systems with hundreds or thousands of locks.

• Security Features: Advanced LFICs include hardened steel inserts, restrictive keyways, and patented key control systems to prevent unauthorized duplication.

Current Applications and Future Trends

• Applications: LFIC systems are widely used in commercial, institutional, and government settings.

• Advancements:

• Integration with electronic and smart locks.

• Enhanced resistance to lock-picking, bumping, and drilling.

• Modular designs that allow integration with other locking technologies.

The development of LFIC was a pivotal step in modernizing lock systems, balancing ease of use with enhanced security.

History Of The Small Format Interchangeable Core

The Small Format Interchangeable Core (SFIC) is a key innovation in lock and security systems, particularly in commercial and institutional settings. The SFIC system allows for quick and efficient rekeying of locks without needing to disassemble the entire lock hardware.

 Here’s an overview of its history and development: 

 1. Origins in Master Keying and Interchangeability • The concept of interchangeable lock cores evolved from the need for flexible and efficient rekeying in multi-user environments. • Early interchangeable core designs can be traced back to the mid-20th century, building upon earlier advancements in pin tumbler and wafer lock technologies. 

 2. Introduction by Best Lock Corporation • The SFIC system was pioneered by Frank E. Best, founder of the Best Lock Corporation, in the late 1920s and early 1930s. • Best developed a patented figure-8-shaped core, which became a defining characteristic of SFIC. • This innovation allowed the lock core (the part containing the pins and keyway) to be removed and replaced using a specialized control key, bypassing the need for traditional rekeying methods. 

 3. Standardization and Popularity • Over time, the SFIC became standardized, with the industry adopting specific dimensional guidelines for core compatibility across brands. • The system gained popularity in commercial, institutional, and government applications, especially in schools, hospitals, and office buildings. • The flexibility to quickly rekey without extensive labor made SFIC a preferred choice in environments with high turnover or varying security needs. 

 4. Expansion and Competitors • Other manufacturers, such as Falcon, Schlage, and Arrow, began producing SFIC-compatible cores. • Despite competition, the Best SFIC design remains a benchmark in the industry. 

 5. Modern Developments • Recent innovations include the integration of SFIC with electronic access control systems, further enhancing security and convenience. • Enhanced material quality and precision manufacturing have improved durability and resistance to tampering. Advantages of SFIC • Quick Rekeying: Reduces downtime and labor costs. • Flexibility: Compatible cores allow users to mix and match brands while maintaining standard functionality. • Security: The control key ensures only authorized personnel can change cores. The SFIC system remains a vital component of modern security infrastructure due to its adaptability, efficiency, and legacy of innovation.

Advantages of SFIC

• Quick Rekeying: Reduces downtime and labor costs.

• Flexibility: Compatible cores allow users to mix and match brands while maintaining standard functionality.

• Security: The control key ensures only authorized personnel can change cores.

The SFIC system remains a vital component of modern security infrastructure due to its adaptability, efficiency, and legacy of innovation.

Advantages of SFIC

• Quick Rekeying: Reduces downtime and labor costs.

• Flexibility: Compatible cores allow users to mix and match brands while maintaining standard functionality.

• Security: The control key ensures only authorized personnel can change cores.

The SFIC system remains a vital component of modern security infrastructure due to its adaptability, efficiency, and legacy of innovation.

The Importance of Upgrading Your Home’s Security: 5 Key Tips to Protect What Matters Most

In today’s world, home security is more important than ever. With the rise of break-ins and home invasions, homeowners need to take proactive measures to ensure their properties and loved ones are safe. While it’s tempting to think your current security system is enough, upgrading your locks and security measures can provide an additional layer of protection and peace of mind.

Here are five key tips to consider when upgrading your home’s security:

1. Upgrade Your Locks to High-Security Versions

One of the simplest and most effective ways to boost your home’s security is by upgrading your locks. Traditional locks, while useful, can often be bypassed with basic tools. High-security locks, however, are designed with advanced features that make them more resistant to picking, drilling, and bumping. Consider installing deadbolts, smart locks, or even biometric locks for enhanced protection.

2. Consider Smart Home Security Systems

Incorporating smart home devices into your security plan can give you greater control and monitoring abilities. Smart locks, doorbell cameras, and motion-sensor lights can be controlled remotely via your smartphone. Many smart locks also offer features such as temporary access codes for guests or service workers, allowing you to keep track of who enters and exits your home.

3. Rekeying Your Locks After a Move or Break-In

If you’ve recently moved into a new home or experienced a break-in, rekeying your locks is a wise move. Rekeying involves changing the internal mechanisms of your existing locks so old keys no longer work. This process can be more cost-effective than replacing locks entirely, yet it ensures that no unauthorized person can access your home with previous keys.

4. Secure Your Windows and Sliding Doors

While most homeowners focus on securing their front and back doors, it’s important not to overlook windows and sliding doors. Install high-quality locks and consider adding extra security measures like window bars or security film to make it more difficult for intruders to gain access. Reinforcing weak points around your home can make a significant difference in preventing break-ins.

5. Regularly Maintain and Inspect Your Security Systems

A lock is only effective if it’s functioning properly. Over time, locks can become worn out, rusty, or misaligned. Regularly inspect all your locks, including deadbolts, smart locks, and windows, to ensure they are in good working condition. Lubricating your locks and replacing any damaged parts can help maintain their effectiveness.

Final Thoughts

Upgrading your home’s security is an investment in your peace of mind. While no system can guarantee 100% protection, taking the right precautions—such as upgrading locks, installing smart security devices, and securing windows—can significantly reduce your chances of becoming a victim of crime.

At Locks210, we specialize in providing top-tier locksmithing services to help protect your home and business. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your locks, rekey your property, or explore advanced security options, our experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today for a consultation!

About Us

Locks210 is a trusted provider of locksmithing and security solutions. We are committed to offering high-quality, reliable services to ensure the safety of your home, business, and vehicles. With years of experience, our expert locksmiths are ready to assist with a wide range of services, from lock repairs and replacements to advanced security system installations.

New Award

 Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Master Key Systems America, LLC Receives 2023 St. Louis Award

St. Louis Award Program Honors the Achievement

ST. LOUIS November 22, 2023 -- Master Key Systems America, LLC has been selected for the 2023 St. Louis Award in the Locksmiths & Keys category by the St. Louis Award Program.

Each year, the St. Louis Award Program identifies companies that we believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and our community. These exceptional companies help make the St. Louis area a great place to live, work and play.

Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The 2023 St. Louis Award Program focuses on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the St. Louis Award Program and data provided by third parties.

About St. Louis Award Program

The St. Louis Award Program is an annual awards program honoring the achievements and accomplishments of local businesses throughout the St. Louis area. Recognition is given to those companies that have shown the ability to use their best practices and implemented programs to generate competitive advantages and long-term value.

The St. Louis Award Program was established to recognize the best of local businesses in our community. Our organization works exclusively with local business owners, trade groups, professional associations and other business advertising and marketing groups. Our mission is to recognize the small business community's contributions to the U.S. economy.

SOURCE: St. Louis Award Program

CONTACT:
St. Louis Award Program
Email: PublicRelations@accolade-businesses.com
URL: http://www.accolade-businesses.com

###

Locksmith Humor…

New Fire Escape Sign

Bilock Machine Fixed

after many many months, we finally stripoed down our Bilock Key Punch and repaired the cutting system and now are again able to originate new and duplicate Bilock keys again. we apologize to our many customers for the inconvenience this caused and we can now provide new keys again and build new systems. the task took more months than we expected but are happy to make bew Bilock systems aveilabke once more. by appointment only!

Bulldog GD400 Gate Security Lock installed to busy convenience store

 Last week we were called to create a suitable lock system for a roll top gate in a location that is experiencing higher than normal burglaries.

Having installed the Bulldog GD400 Security Gate lock a few years ago for another client, we knew what to install at this location to significantly increase their security without the need to install a replacement gate.

The product is made in Great Britain and has virtually no match for security and practicality globally.

Installation is straightforward normally but this one was made more difficult due to how close the gate rides next the the shopfront aluminum glass doors.

The keeper (strike plate) is embedded into the cement entrance. It is about 6” long and requires hammer drilling into the floor and setting with quick dry cement.

The cost to install this high security lock system is significantly competitive to replacing a $15,000.00 complete new gate.

Sure Fit Concealed Door Closer - New Product by D&D Technologies

A new product by D&D Technologies, the well  known Australian gate and door hardware manufacturer, perhaps best known globally for it’s superior gate locks and hinges surprises the market with its latest release product that now provides a unique door closing system for residential and commercial doors.

The video above shows just how this new product operates and the type of applications it is suitable for.

Architects and builders rejoice because this intelligent design provides a seamless concealed fit that offers increased security with its tamper proof design while providing an adjustable speed and latching action to suit multiple desires.

Traditional surface door closers are the industry standard worldwide, having been available for over a hundred years. 

While they continue to provide quality closing options, this product and the offering by Serrature Meroni with their FS980 series concealed fit floor closer, now provide discerning and aesthetically inclined home owners, hospitals, schools, colleges and universities, virtually all commercial buildings, storefronts etc with a different alternative to the mainstream door closer market that combines functionality and aesthetics for a beautiful finish.

Be sure to inform your architect, builder or locksmith that you’d like to use this product as an affordable and sightly alternative to the standard run of the mill door closers you would usually find.

Custom Blocker Plate installed to Shopfront Door

 Todays job was to install a blocker plate, custom made for a shopfront door because typical commercially available plates of similar ilk would not fit easily without moving the current door pull.

We decided upon aluminum L junction that we cut out to accept the existing door lock. We painted the aluminum plate with Flex Seal rubberized paint and Durontic color enamel rust resistant spray paint.

We attached the new plate with 3/16” rivets for a clean and permanent fit.

It works flawlessly and matches the aesthetics of the existing frame.

Customer is satisfied and ordered more work for another location. This being the fifth location we have done work for them.

Invisible Door Closer Redfines Closing Your Door

 

Meroni FS980 Invisible door closer

The FS980 Door Closer System is a unique product that makes your door closer virtually invisible, while still maintaining the aesthetics of your doors.

The product is expertly created and straightforward to install, operate and adjust.

Door closers are a very sought after product, especially in commercial settings. Where the FS980 shines, is that it becomes the hinge as well as the door closer.

Below find an installation instruction video for this fabulous product,

We are the North American Distributors for most of the Meroni product lines, but we dont keep much product in inventory. Most Meroni products are purchased custom built to individual customer requirements

If you wish to learn more about any Meroni products, feel free to call or email us and we will respond as soon as possible.

(source...)

Story Of My Life...

 

Male Chastity - Personal Security Protection that's Different

 We originally posted the article below in January 2011 and it has gathered thousands of views online. The sellers have updated their product offerings in due course and we highly suggest checking out the source for their updated products.

Male Chastity - Unusual Security Product

I thought long and hard (forgive the pun) about whether or not to post this article, for obvious reasons.

But I decided that it fits into the unusual and unique security products category, if you open your mind a bit.

This product was originally tailored to women but could be considered by any chosen persuasion, keen on keeping their male partners from straying.

Of course you can choose your own preferred brand of padlock.

(source...)

What Is Your Preferred Door Hardware Color Finish?

 What Is Your Preferred Door Hardware Finish?

What is your preferred door hardware color finish? We have been taking a long look through our invoices over the last 15 years and determined the most popular and preferred color finish selections from our vast list of clients.

The stock photo above is an image of a piece of nickel. We include it here because of the sudden rise in the market price of nickel ore, just in the last 2 days. We suspect there are obvious reasons for this sudden spike, given the political and economic upheavals our world is currently experiencing, but this story made me think about the most common request for color finishes of door hardware, knobs, deadbolts, lever entrance sets. thumbpress entrance locksets, hinges, peepholes, door sweeps, blocker plates, wrap-arounds etc, among some of the products we have sold, serviced and installed over the years.

The common finishes in the market in the USA and other countries around the world are pretty much similar even though some places choose varying preferences, which could be regional among other reasons. 

I'm sure people across the industry and around the world, decorators, interior and exterior designers, locksmiths, builders, retailers etc would enjoy understanding why some color selections are made over others and if you would like to share your preferred color finish choices in the comments below that'd be great.

According to our deep dive into our books, the preferred door hardware color finishes are topped by the Satin Nickel choice.

Antique Brass comes a distant second followed closely by polished brass, with venetian bronze and florentine bronze bringing up the rear. Black is finding more traction in recent years but is still farther down the list of preferences.

We have been representing a few manufacturers over the last 15 years, including Serrature Meroni products, Assa-Abloy Lockwood, Schlage, Kwikset, Weslock, Hooply, to name a few. 

Many contractors and retailers will offer a variety of color options to fit the unique tastes of clients. Simply ask your chosen contractor if your desired door hardware color finish is available.

If you want to know more about door hardware color finishes and styles of door hardware, Contact Us on 314-266-1533 or by email and a customer service person will be glad to help.

Sliding Patio Door Repairs - Continuing Requests for our Experience

 

We have been operating in the lock and door hardware and door repair industry for most of the last 40 years across four continents and continue to service and repair doors and door hardware for our clients today. Sometimes we receive requests to install new hardware and lock and key systems, unique door furniture that is also of a more pleasing aesthetic nature

Today, we attended to a returning clients needs after about 5 years, where the particular sliding door we worked on, had a new issue.

Previously (5 years ago) the door was incredibly difficult for the homeowners to operate because the sliding door rollers fitted to the bottom had seized up. At that time, we removed the door and carefully cleaned the sliding door rollers of the build up of animal hair, dirt, grime and other blockages, that were contributing to the problems. We used our preferred brand of lubricant to lubricate and protect the existing sliding door rollers ensuring continued use for many years to come.

Yesterday, the customer called us after 5 years requesting additional service to the same door but not for the same issue. This time the actual handle had snapped on the inside. As luck would have it, we actually had one left of the same design handle mechanism, in the same color finish and made the appointment to attend today to complete the necessary repair.

Upon our arrival onsite, the customer explained that the handle snapped yesterday because the door was slowly becoming increasingly harder to operate and slide and the handle was becoming more loose over time.

We try to be pedantic about our repair methods and after replacing the broken handle, also decided to lubricate the track and sliding door rollers again (after 5 years). The resulting repairs allow the door to slide like butter on a hot fry-pan again.

Benefits Of Using Lock210/St Louis Locksmiths For Your Sliding Patio Door Repair Projects

• 40 years local, national and international knowledge and experience
• Qualified, knowledgeable and field-experienced technicians
• Unique Security Products and Accessories
• Bonded, Insured and Quality Assured
• Cost-effective solutions to fit any budget
• local family owned and operated

If you are in need of quality and experienced professional technicians to complete your unique and discerning installation project, Contact Locks210/St Louis Locksmiths today  on (314)266-1533 and enjoy a similar experience that our customers continue to rave about and call us back for, for years to come.

Securing Church Sacristy - Installing New Lock

 A long time and continuing client of ours contacted us last week to install their provided cam-lock to their church sacristy and wanted it keyed to suit their existing key, that operates other locks across their facility. The church already had their maintenance person install a barrel bolt to the fixed leaf of the proposed cupboard.

The difficulty was, they currently use a Ronis brand of cam-lock system in many of their other cupboards across other parts of their facility. They decided to purchase the particular cam-lock from a big box hardware, hoping it could easily be just keyed alike to their existing key. Ronis brand hardware is not a common brand of hardware found in many general supply houses or big box hardware stores and it can be difficult to re-key any old lock to their desired key.

A professional tradesperson will understand the requirements to be able to convert another brand of lock to operate with a different brand of key and often there is no way to perform the miracle and purchasing the same brand of lock is required. 

In this case, we immediately discovered that their desired key would not enter the key-way of the new lock. Being the trained and field experienced tradesman I am, i was able to modify the core to accept their desired Ronis key and could then re-key the core to the Ronis key combination.

We are choosing to not show the method we use to modify the chosen brand of core and below we will show you the installation procedure.

The first step in any installation project is to always protect the contents of the cupboard where you are working. Now, you can obviously empty the cupboard if you want, prior to beginning your work or you can choose to cover the contents with drop/cover sheets.

By using covering material to protect the contents of the cupboard, the valuable contents are protected, ensuring continued usability and cleanliness.

Again, the choice is for the installer or the site manager to make but in this case, they chose to just get it done and let the installer choose. 

It's very important that any installer of anything, be sure to accurately measure and mark before drilling anything at all. A professional will not just measure once, but probably 2-3 times, to ensure they are being as accurate as possible. It makes no sense to just do anything by eye or just wing it, as some DIY'ers might choose. If your customer is paying for a professional service, then do it the right way please.

I choose to pre-drill my first holes with a smaller drill bit, to enable me to make sure of my accuracy. If I'm out a bit, by using a smaller drill bit, i can still relocate my first hole if needed.

I like to start with a small hole drilled from the inside in the right location before switching to the outside and drilling too. This way I make a nice clean hole, generally without cracking the edges of the nicely finished and painted door.

After drilling a small hole from each side, I then can either use a spade bit or a hole saw of the appropriate size to drill the hole required for the case of the lock assembly.

Then put the collar ring and lock case into your hole, attach the appropriate cam, in this case an off-set cam that butts against the fixed leaf (other door).

Dont forget to clean up all your mess and test to finish.

Benefits Of Using Lock210/St Louis Locksmiths For Your Lock Installation Projects

• 40 years local, national and international knowledge and experience
• Qualified, knowledgeable and field-experienced technicians
• Unique Security Products and Accessories
• Bonded, Insured and Quality Assured
• Cost-effective solutions to fit any budget
• local family owned and operated

If you are in need of quality and experienced professional technicians to complete your unique and discerning installation project, Contact Locks210/St Louis Locksmiths today an enjoy a similar experience that our customers continue to rave about and call us back for, for years to come.

How To Re-key Old Yale Mortise Deadbolt Locks

How do you re-key old Yale mortise deadbolt locks? 

This week we completed a re-key project for a new customer that involved these 75 year old Yale double cylinder mortise deadbolts. Pictured here is the image of one cylinder installed to the outside of the back door. At the left of the image you can see where someone had deliberately drilled the connecting screw to remove the ability to unscrew the screw from outside.

To be able to remove the cylinders from these really old Yale mortise deadbolts, both inside and outside connecting screws require to come out before the cylinders can be removed for re-keying.

Getting the screws out is not difficult, but that's why we are called as opposed to a handyman or carpenter contractor.

Just about any locksmith with some experience will know the method and skill required to easily disassemble any lock that uses these type of blind screws or bolts, without destruction and enabling the ability to reuse the same screws or bolts when putting the locks back together.

 Pictured next is the image of the cylinder on my bench, already removed from the door. You can clearly see the connecting screw hole.

This image displays the reverse side of the Yale mortise deadbolt cylinder. This style of Yale Mortise deadbolt lock was designed using the original rim style of pin tumbler cylinder, originally patented in 1865 by Linus Yale Jr.

Rekeying these types of older Yale cylinders can be a trap for younger players or less experienced technicians and we will explain the method below to help you with disassembly.

My pointer here is aimed at the retainer clip that holds the tail piece and cover to the rear of the cylinder and core. It is necessary to carefully squeeze the ends of the clip together first.

The next image shows me applying pressure to the retainer clip to allow the clip to be withdrawn from the back of the core.

Here you can see the clip beginning to come out of the cover plate that holds the tail piece on. Carefully use an awl to lever the clip from the core.

This image shows the retainer clip, almost fully withdrawn from the tail piece cover assembly. If you're careful enough, you will not damage the tiny clip enabling you to reuse it for reassembly,

Next, we were also required to disassemble an equally as old entrance knobset to extract the cylinder core for re-keying. To be able to remove the core (plug) from the cylinder it is necessary to remove the rear tail piece and cap assembly and retainer circlip, before you can then remove the core (plug) from the cylinder and replace the tumblers.

Here is an image of the tail piece assembly and retainer circlip removed and the cylinder ready for re-keying.

Some technicians may choose to not disassemble the clip and tail piece, preferring to remove and replace the top cap from the bible (top pinning chamber).

We choose to not show the actual re-pinning method and combination of the re-keyed locks, to protect the customers interests.

Benefits Using Locks210/St Louis Locksmiths For Your Re-Keying Projects

• Almost 40 years local, national and international experience
• Qualified, knowledgeable and field-experienced technicians
• Quantity discounts
• High-quality product options
• Quality Assurance
• Family owned and operated local business

Are you concerned how many keys exist to your home?

When you purchase your new home or move into your new rental property, it is common to want to be the only ones to have keys to your place. You can choose to purchase complete new locks and door hardware or simply contact your local locksmith to simply re-key your existing locks at much less cost, while maintaining the existing products and aesthetics. Contact Locks210/St Louis Locksmiths today and experience the difference we are known for.

Auto Door Bottoms and Sweeps prevent Cold Air Coming In and Save on Heating and Cooling Costs

The video here shows a common DIY method to deal with cold air coming in through your external doors.

How To Stop Cold or Warm Air From Coming In...

There are many DIY options in the wider market that offer some interesting and sometimes odd methods to control the flow of air through entry doors on our homes. Often, homeowners choose to contract a professional door repairer like ourselves to provide them with a solution that is professional and permanent, without they having to repeatedly perform a task.

We here at St Louis Locksmiths and Door Repair continue to provide our customers with unique solutions that meet their needs and exceed their expectations. We provide solutions that not only secure your properties but also contribute to reducing your heating and cooling costs.

Another innovative product that we recommend is the Pemko range of automatic door bottoms and sweeps. These awesome products are uniquely designed to provide relief from cold air or warm air that enters under your door during winter or summer seasons.

The first image above displays the full mortise version of a Pemko Auto Door Bottom. Unlike common door sweeps found today on many entry doors, these Pemko Auto Door Bottoms are uniquely designed to automatically seal the bottom of your doors, only when the door is closed. This unique feature extends the life expectancy of a door sweep because the seal only activates when the door is physically shut. When the door opens, the seal rises to prevent the typical wear and tear you see from other brands and types of door bottoms and sweeps. This mortised door bottom and sweep, requires your door to be removed to install.

The next image is of a Pemko Surface Mounted Auto Door Bottom and Sweep. Similarly to the mortised version, the door bottom and sweep is designed to automatically lower only when the door is closed and rise automatically when the door is opened. this surface mounted version can be installed without the need to remove and refit your door.

Benefits St Louis Locksmiths and Door Repairs provides:

• Unique Security Products and Services
• 40+ years of local and international experience
• Widespread Knowledge of Unique and Diverse products
• Experienced, Qualified and Bonded Technicians
• Cost Conscious professionals
• Labor and Parts Warranty

Want to Learn more about how to save on your heating and cooling costs?

If you are ready to save on your heating and cooling costs, Contact St Louis Locksmiths and Door Repairs Here and our technicians will provide you an obligation free on-site estimate.