Rekeying a Kwikset lock with out a key might look like a frightening job, however it’s a comparatively simple course of that may be accomplished in a couple of easy steps. Whether or not you’ve got misplaced your key or need to improve the safety of your property, rekeying your lock can present peace of thoughts and forestall unauthorized entry. On this complete information, we’ll stroll you thru the mandatory instruments and supply step-by-step directions that can assist you rekey your Kwikset lock with out a key effortlessly.
Initially, you have to to assemble the mandatory instruments for the job. These embody a small flat-head screwdriver, a pair of needle-nose pliers, and a brand new Kwikset key. Upon getting your instruments prepared, you possibly can start the rekeying course of. Begin by eradicating the faceplate of the lock utilizing the flat-head screwdriver. Subsequent, find the C-clip that holds the cylinder in place and take away it with the needle-nose pliers. Now, rigorously pull out the cylinder and insert the brand new key into it.
With the brand new key inserted, align the pins contained in the cylinder to match the important thing’s cuts. To do that, use the flat-head screwdriver to softly faucet on the pins till they’re flush with the highest of the cylinder. As soon as all pins are aligned, reinsert the cylinder into the lock and safe it with the C-clip. Lastly, substitute the faceplate and take a look at the lock with the brand new key to make sure it operates easily. Congratulations! You may have efficiently rekeyed your Kwikset lock with out a key, offering an additional layer of safety to your property.
Collect the Crucial Instruments
To rekey a Kwikset lock with out a key, you will want a couple of important instruments:
- Hex key or Allen wrench: A hex key, also called an Allen wrench, is a small, L-shaped software with a hexagonal head. It’s used to insert into the set screw that holds the cylinder in place.
- Rekeying package: A rekeying package comprises a set of latest key pins and comes. You’ll use these to exchange the present pins and comes within the lock cylinder, creating a brand new key mixture.
- Flathead screwdriver: A flathead screwdriver is used to take away the screws that maintain the lock’s faceplate in place.
- Punch or paperclip: A punch or paperclip is used to depress the springs within the lock cylinder, permitting you to take away the previous key pins.
Along with these instruments, you may additionally need to have a small hammer, a pair of pliers, and a towel or material available.
Examine the Lock and Establish the Rekeying Sort
Earlier than rekeying a Kwikset lock with out a key, it’s essential to find out the kind of rekeying mechanism it makes use of. Kwikset locks usually make use of one in every of two rekeying strategies:
SmartKey Rekeying
Kwikset SmartKey locks function a patented rekeying system that enables customers to rekey the lock with out disassembling it. This technique makes use of a rekeying software that inserts into a chosen slot on the lock’s faceplate. By turning the rekeying software, the lock’s pins are reset, creating a brand new key mixture.
Conventional Rekeying
Conventional rekeying entails eradicating the lock cylinder from the housing and disassembling it to entry the lock’s pins. This methodology requires the usage of a lock-picking package or a devoted rekeying package. The pins are then eliminated and rearranged to create a brand new key mixture. Conventional rekeying is often used on older Kwikset locks that wouldn’t have the SmartKey rekeying system.
To find out the kind of rekeying mechanism your Kwikset lock makes use of, seek the advice of the lock’s packaging or consumer handbook. If the lock has a rekeying slot on the faceplate, it seemingly makes use of the SmartKey rekeying system. If the lock doesn’t have a rekeying slot, it makes use of conventional rekeying.
| Rekeying Sort | Identification |
|---|---|
| SmartKey Rekeying | Rekeying slot on the faceplate |
| Conventional Rekeying | No rekeying slot on the faceplate |
Take away the Door Knob or Lever
To take away the door knob or lever, first take away the screws which are holding it in place. These screws are often situated on the within of the door, close to the sting. As soon as the screws are eliminated, you possibly can gently pull the door knob or lever off of the door. Watch out to not harm the door or the lock.
Take away the Retainer Plate
The retainer plate is a small metallic plate that’s situated behind the door knob or lever. It’s held in place by two screws. Take away these screws after which pull the retainer plate off of the door.
Take away the Cylinder
The cylinder is the a part of the lock that comprises the pins. To take away the cylinder, first insert the important thing into the lock and switch it to the unlock place. Then, use a small screwdriver or a pair of tweezers to push the discharge button on the aspect of the cylinder. As soon as the discharge button is pushed, the cylinder could be pulled out of the lock.
| Cylinder Sort | Launch Button Location |
|---|---|
| Single-cylinder lock | On the aspect of the cylinder, dealing with the surface of the door |
| Double-cylinder lock | On the aspect of the cylinder, dealing with the within of the door |
Take away the Cylinder from the Lock
4. Take away the cylinder from the lock
As soon as the screws are eliminated, the cylinder could be pulled out of the lock. It could be needed to make use of a screwdriver or a pair of pliers to softly pry the cylinder out. Watch out to not harm the cylinder or the lock when doing this.
If the cylinder remains to be caught, there could also be a small set screw on the again of the cylinder that must be loosened. Use an Allen wrench or a small screwdriver to loosen the set screw after which attempt to pull the cylinder out once more.
As soon as the cylinder is eliminated, you will notice a small gap at the back of the lock. That is the place the brand new key will likely be inserted.
Realign the Pins and Springs
The fifth step entails rigorously realigning the pins and comes throughout the lock mechanism. This course of requires precision and a focus to element. This is a three-part information that can assist you by means of this significant step:
Step 5a: Take away the Plug
Utilizing a screwdriver or decide software, gently take away the plug from the lock cylinder. Watch out to not apply extreme pressure, as it will possibly harm the fragile inner elements.
Step 5b: Align the Plug and Key Pins
As soon as the plug is eliminated, insert the important thing into the lock cylinder. This can enable you find the place of the plug and key pins. Gently rotate the important thing to align the important thing pins with the corresponding positions on the plug.
Step 5c: Raise the Driver Pins
Utilizing a decide software, rigorously carry every driver pin till it’s flush with the highest of the plug. Take your time and make sure that all pins are raised to the proper peak.
| Step | Motion |
|---|---|
| 5a | Take away the plug |
| 5b | Align the plug and key pins |
| 5c | Raise the motive force pins |
Substitute the Cylinder and Reassemble the Lock
Upon getting extracted the plug from the housing, it is time to substitute the cylinder. It is a simple course of, however it’s worthwhile to watch out to not harm the cylinder or the housing.
- Insert the brand new cylinder into the housing. Be sure that the keyway is aligned with the keyway within the housing.
- Push the plug again into the housing. Be sure that the plug is absolutely inserted and that the pins are correctly aligned.
- Reassemble the lock. Comply with the steps in reverse order to reassemble the lock.
Further Ideas for Changing the Cylinder
- If attainable, use a brand new cylinder, even when the previous one remains to be practical. This can assist make sure that your lock is safer.
- In case you are utilizing a used cylinder, guarantee that it’s in good situation. The cylinder shouldn’t have any cracks or different harm.
- Watch out to not harm the cylinder or the housing when inserting and eradicating the plug.
- Shorten the Binding Pin: Use a pin cutter to barely shorten the offending pin by roughly 0.005 inches.
- Sand the Binding Pin: Alternatively, gently sand the shoulder of the binding pin to cut back its diameter and alleviate friction.
- Polish the Lock Cylinder: If the lock cylinder itself is inflicting friction, frivolously polish its interior floor utilizing fine-grit sandpaper.
- A brand new Kwikset lock
- A screwdriver
- A small hammer
- A nail or paperclip
- Take away the previous lock from the door.
- Insert the important thing into the brand new lock and switch it to the locked place.
- Use a screwdriver to loosen the screws on the faceplate of the lock.
- Take away the faceplate and set it apart.
- Use a hammer and nail or paperclip to take away the C-clip from the lock cylinder.
- Take away the lock cylinder from the lock physique.
- Insert the brand new lock cylinder into the lock physique.
- Substitute the C-clip on the lock cylinder.
- Substitute the faceplate on the lock and tighten the screws.
- Reinstall the lock on the door.
Take a look at the Rekeyed Lock
After rekeying the lock, it is important to check it totally to make sure it capabilities accurately. This is how one can verify the rekeyed lock:
1. Insert a New Key: Insert the newly minimize key into the rekeyed lock and attempt to rotate it each clockwise and counterclockwise. The lock ought to function easily with none resistance.
2. Take away and Reinser: Take away the important thing and insert it again into the lock a number of instances. The important thing ought to enter effortlessly and switch the lock with none points.
3. A number of Keys: When you’ve got a number of keys minimize for the rekeyed lock, take a look at every key individually to make sure all of them work accurately.
4. Examine Alignment: Observe the important thing as you insert and switch it. Guarantee the important thing aligns correctly with the pins within the lock cylinder. Any misalignment can point out a rekeying error.
5. Rotate: Rotate the important thing within the lock a couple of instances, taking note of the motion of the lock cylinder. The cylinder ought to rotate easily and unlock or lock the deadbolt as meant.
6. Visible Inspection: Look at the keyway and lock cylinder for any seen harm or particles. Rekeying might require submitting or altering the lock elements, so verify for any irregularities.
7. Door Operation: Set up the rekeyed lock on the door and take a look at its operation. Open and shut the door a number of instances to make sure the bolt enters and retracts from the strike plate easily. The door ought to lock and unlock seamlessly utilizing the brand new keys.
Ideas for Troubleshooting Frequent Issues
Should you’re encountering difficulties whereas rekeying your Kwikset lock with out a key, take into account the next troubleshooting ideas:
1. Guarantee Correct Alignment
Examine if the pins are absolutely inserted and aligned accurately throughout the lock cylinder. Misalignment can hinder the rekeying course of.
2. Apply Ample Drive
When setting the pins, use constant and agency pressure. Keep away from extreme stress, as this will harm the pins or lock elements.
3. Confirm Spring Rigidity
Be certain that the springs beneath the pins will not be too tight or too free. Alter the stress by barely bending the springs as wanted.
4. Pin Retainer Points
If the pin retainer is broken or not correctly seated, it will possibly stop the pins from sustaining their place. Substitute the retainer if needed.
5. Keyway Obstructions
Examine the keyway for any particles or obstructions that would hinder the important thing from absolutely participating with the lock cylinder.
6. Incorrect Pin Choice
Guarantee that you’re utilizing the proper key pins in your particular lock mannequin. Utilizing incorrect pins can stop the lock from functioning correctly.
7. Binding Pins
Should you expertise binding pins throughout rekeying, it could point out extreme pin depth. Alter the pins to make sure they’re flush with the highest of the cylinder.
8. Superior Troubleshooting for Binding Pins
For persistent binding pins, take into account the next superior troubleshooting methods:
Precautions to Think about
Earlier than making an attempt to rekey a Kwikset lock with out a key, it’s essential to think about the next precautions:
1. Security First
Put on gloves and security glasses to guard your self from potential accidents.
2. Collect Crucial Instruments
Guarantee you might have all the mandatory instruments, together with a screwdriver, a rekeying package, and a small hammer or mallet.
3. Establish Lock Mannequin
Decide the mannequin of your Kwikset lock to make sure you have the proper rekeying package.
4. Take away Knob or Lever
Take away the knob or lever from the lock by unscrewing the screws holding it in place.
5. Entry Lock Cylinder
Find and take away the lock cylinder from the lock physique utilizing a screwdriver.
6. Disassemble Lock Cylinder
Fastidiously disassemble the lock cylinder by eradicating the retaining ring and pin tumbler system.
7. Reassemble with New Pins
Insert the brand new key pins into the lock cylinder and reassemble it, making certain the pins are aligned accurately.
8. Set up Rekeyed Cylinder
Insert the rekeyed cylinder again into the lock physique and safe it with the retaining ring.
9. Reinstall Knob or Lever
Reinstall the knob or lever onto the lock and tighten the screws to make sure a safe match. Be aware that when you have a SmartKey lock, you have to to observe particular steps to rekey it, because it makes use of a distinct mechanism than conventional pin tumbler locks. Seek the advice of the producer’s directions for detailed steerage on rekeying a SmartKey lock.
| Lock Sort | Further Precautions |
|---|---|
| Single-Cylinder Lock | Solely accessible from the surface, requires a key to unlock from the within |
| Double-Cylinder Lock | Accessible from each side, requires a key to unlock from each side |
Advantages of Rekeying a Lock And not using a Key
Rekeying a lock with out a key gives quite a few advantages, together with:
Elevated Safety
Rekeying a lock prevents unauthorized people from utilizing previous keys to realize entry to your property. It is particularly useful should you’ve misplaced or had your keys stolen.
Comfort
You needn’t substitute the whole lock, which saves money and time. Rekeying additionally lets you use the identical key for a number of locks, simplifying entry to your property or workplace.
Privateness
Rekeying ensures that solely licensed people have entry to your property, defending your privateness and belongings.
Value-Efficient
Rekeying a lock is considerably cheaper than changing the whole lock, making it a cheap solution to improve your safety.
Emergency Entry
Should you’re locked out of your property or workplace, a locksmith can rekey the lock with out a key, permitting you to regain entry rapidly and conveniently.
Peace of Thoughts
Understanding that your locks are safe and solely licensed people have entry can present peace of thoughts.
Value Issues for Rekeying a Lock And not using a Key
The price of rekeying a lock with out a key depends upon a number of components, together with:
| Issue | Value Vary |
|---|---|
| Variety of Locks | $20-$75 per lock |
| Lock Sort | $40-$100 per lock (for high-security locks) |
| Emergency Service | $100-$250 |
It is vital to notice that these prices are estimates and may differ relying on the locksmith and your location.
How To Rekey A Kwikset Lock With out A Key
Should you’ve misplaced your keys or want to alter the locks on your property, you do not have to name a locksmith. You possibly can rekey a Kwikset lock with out a key your self with a couple of easy instruments.
This is what you will want:
Upon getting your instruments, observe these steps:
Your lock is now rekeyed and able to use.
Individuals Additionally Ask About How To Rekey A Kwikset Lock With out A Key
What’s the distinction between a rekey package and a lock decide set?
A rekey package is a set of instruments that lets you change the important thing that opens a lock. A lock decide set is a set of instruments that lets you open a lock with out a key.
Can I rekey a Kwikset lock myself?
Sure, you possibly can rekey a Kwikset lock your self with a couple of easy instruments. Comply with the steps within the tutorial above.
How a lot does it value to rekey a Kwikset lock?
The price of rekeying a Kwikset lock will differ relying on the locksmith you utilize. Nonetheless, you possibly can anticipate to pay between $20 and $50 for the service.
