Replacing a lock on a metal door. Replacing a lock on a metal door in a few simple steps How to change locks on doors in an apartment

Door locks are such things that are used on a daily basis. Their full significance can be appreciated in case replacement is required.

In such a situation, you can use the services of specialists, or, if you have the skills, replace them yourself. In this article we will look at the methods and find out how to change the lock on a metal door with several types: cylinder, disc and lever.

If we are talking about a cylinder type, the process has some specifics (for more details, see the video: “How to remove or remove a door mechanism without replacing the core”). The designs include a special security mechanism located in the core, which has a cylindrical shape. When the key is turned in the well, the pins of this mechanism move into special recesses.

It is necessary to note two main types of installation locations (see): those that are main - lower (under the handle), and additional - upper (without it).

For those who have decided that the breakdown will be repaired on their own, it is useful to know what the kit consists of:

cylinder (or otherwise - larva);
armor protection pad;
pen.

Design

If the handle is damaged, only it needs to be replaced. If the key breaks or is lost, there is no need to change the lock on a metal door; you only need to change the cylinder, since it is the main structural part. In this case, the choice of cylinder depends on what type of burglary the door needs to be protected from (see).

Depending on the type of burglary, there are different variations of larvae:

drilling;
using a duplicate key;
knocking out;
opening with a master key.

Attention. Before changing the mechanism, it is advisable to understand the methods of installing the larvae (end; through a fixing insert; through a fastening screw; internal). The same applies to the type of cylinder (disc, overhead, cruciform, etc.).

Cylinder repair procedure

To replace a metal door lock, unscrew the locking screw from the end plate of the lock.

Insert the key into the hole from the inside and, holding it, or by the turntable, pull out the cylinder towards the door. Sometimes, in order to pull out the cylinder, you need to turn it using a wrench or a turntable 20 degrees.
We buy a cylinder of exactly the same size. The most important thing is the distance from the outer edge of the cylinder to the pawl.
Place the cylinder in the door from the inside, secure it with a locking screw through a special hole.

Repairing the body

If, however, the problem lies in the mechanism itself, then replacement is carried out in the following sequence:

We completely retract the crossbar, that is, we open the structure. “Please note that in our situation the bolts must be extended.”
We pull the cylinder out of the well.
We remove (if any) the door handles (see), armor plate and latches. Decorative covers for the well do not need to be removed.

After these steps, the lock can be pulled out by sliding it under the end plate. Then we buy exactly the same mechanism. The easiest way is if the purchase takes place from the door manufacturer.

Level type

A lever lock is a mechanism in which the secret element consists of a package of special plates (i.e. levers) with cutouts in the form of figures.

If a domestic lever-type device is installed in the door, then even if there are problems with the keys, you will have to change the entire mechanism, since recoding will then be impossible.
If an imported lever-type device is installed in the door, which provides for recoding, then only the secret part may need to be replaced. You also need to reprogram the levers for the new key set. In this case, there is simply no need to change the entire structure.
Level structures are the most complex of those that a metal door can have - replacing a lock of this type always requires more time.

It depends on the cause of the breakdown whether you will have to completely change the device or limit yourself to updating only one of the parts that have become unusable. There can be many reasons: the handle is torn off, the keys are lost (see).

Work order:

Before replacement can be carried out, the metal door must be open. We completely move the crossbar, that is, we open the structure. “Note that in our example the bolts are extended.”
We take out the key from the well.
We remove (if any) the door handles, armor plate and latches. Decorative keyhole covers do not need to be removed.
We unscrew two or four (depending on the type of structure) fastening end screws. In the example under consideration, we have four of them.

After these steps, replacement consists of pulling out the mechanism, prying it under the end plate. Then we buy exactly the same mechanism. The easiest way is if the purchase takes place from the door manufacturer. The lock is installed in the reverse order of its disassembly.

If you are the owner of a lever design from CISA with multiple transcoding functions, then you do not need to do all of the above. You just need to take new keys and recode the lock.

Disc type

In the mechanisms of disk designs, the secret is made in the form of a cylinder, but inside there is a set of special elements, not pins. The dimensions and shape of the cutouts on them must match the dimensions of the recesses on the keys. A special feature of this type of design is the key with a semicircular cross-section.

If you need to change the lock on a metal door with a disc-type design, you need to keep in mind the following points:

If there is a breakdown of the domestic disk locking device, then it is better to replace it completely. It is recommended to buy a device from imported manufacturers, since domestic ones are not of very high quality and durable.
If there is a breakdown of the domestic disk locking device, then you only need to replace the cylinder if it is the problem. A specialist will determine the cause of the breakdown.

Attention. It must be borne in mind that the level of security depends on the number of disks and the possible positions of the grooves on their side surfaces. However, the secret function of the mechanism is neutralized if the structure is not strong enough, so protection is necessary.

For example, a cylinder that does not go all the way through the body is more resistant to being knocked out. The armored cup will be additionally protected from impacts, drilling and cutting. We hope that after reading this article you have no questions about how to replace the lock on a metal door.

Replacing door locks is an infrequent event, but sooner or later every owner has to face this task: there are many reasons why urgent installation of a new locking mechanism may be required. It would seem easier to entrust this procedure to specialists, but not only the quality of the work, but also the safety of the home depends on the conscientiousness of the performer, so it is more expedient to carry out this work without the involvement of strangers. Replacing a lock on a metal entrance door is not such a difficult undertaking: you can handle it yourself.

Locks on metal entrance doors can serve faithfully for a long time, but situations still arise when there is a need to urgently replace them.

Mechanism failure can occur due to violation of operating rules or poor-quality design parts. Often the cause of a malfunction is the lack of timely maintenance: the larva must be cleaned from time to time from dust and dirt and treated with a lubricant.
If you lose your keys, changing the front door lock is not always necessary. But it is better to secure your apartment, because it is unknown who found the bunch of keys and whether he will decide to use them. If all the keys have been lost and there is no duplicate left, then you cannot do without replacing the lock.
When breaking in, damage may occur not only to the lock, but also to the door itself.
Installing a new door may not involve replacing the lock. As a rule, manufacturers are ready to provide comprehensive services and supply a structure equipped with a locking mechanism. But if you are used to trusting only yourself, then you will have to choose a lock of similar size and install it.
If the owner of the apartment changes, then installing a new lock is a necessary precaution, even if the old design works successfully, and the former owners claim that they left you all copies of the keys.
When an outdated, unreliable locking structure is installed on a metal door, this is also a reason to think about improving security.

How to choose the right replacement lock

Replacing locks on a metal door involves two main processes: removing the old locking mechanism and installing a new one. All the recesses and mounting holes on the canvas and the box are already there, so we don’t have to stock up on complex power tools and learn the basics of working with a grinder and a welding machine. But in order to change locks on a metal door quickly, you need to choose the right new locking mechanism: it must be similar to the old design. In order not to make a mistake with the type and size of the lock, the best option is to dismantle it and go with it to purchase a new mechanism.

How to replace a lock on a metal door if the old mechanism is no longer available for some reason? In this case, it is necessary to take accurate measurements of the following elements of the seat:

window for the case (absent if an overhead lock was installed);
the size of the holes in the lock and handle, the center-to-center distance between them;
holes for fastening (center-to-center distances);
the distance between the outer edge of the lock bar and the center of the borehole or cylinder, depending on the design. Experts call this parameter “backset”

Determining the type of locking mechanism

Cylinder Suvaldny

You can find out what type of lock is installed in an iron door by looking at the external parameters of the key and the hole.

The cylinder locking mechanism has a flat key, on the surface of which there are notches and grooves. One of the main elements of this lock is a cylindrical cylinder, which can be easily removed from the structure and replaced with a new similar part. There are several types of cylinder locks: cross-shaped, the key of which looks like a Phillips screwdriver, pin (with a perforated key), disk (a semicircular key with cuts). But the reliability of the last three options is not high enough, so they are practically not used for installation on entrance doors.
The lever lock is unlocked with a key, which has the shape of a long rod with plates cut along the edges. It has a large hole for the key. Such mechanisms will be more difficult to replace, but in terms of safety they are significantly superior to cylinder ones.

These are the two most popular and reliable designs, so we will consider in detail how the lock on a metal door is replaced, depending on the mechanism.

Cylinder lock replacement process

The method of replacing cylinder locks on metal doors depends primarily on the reason. If the key breaks and gets stuck in the well or is accidentally lost, then it is more advisable to install a new cylinder, for which there is no need to completely dismantle the structure. The work order occurs in the following sequence:

There is a locking screw on the end of the door that we need to unscrew.
Next we go inside the room. Our task is to insert the key into the socket and turn it 10–15 degrees. With this action we displace the extended tongue of the secret mechanism that holds the larva in the nest.
Now we remove the larva, pulling it together with the key “towards ourselves”.
The replacement part must match exactly in length, diameter, mounting hole position and color.
Install the new door lock part in the reverse order.
If it is not possible to align the mounting screw with the hole, slightly move the cylinder until a positive result is obtained.

If the lock itself is damaged or wears out due to a long period of use, the entire case will have to be replaced. Initially, the algorithm of actions follows the same plan as for replacing the core. Once the larva is extracted, we need to follow these steps:

Remove the door handle and protective trim. If the design includes a valve, remove it too.
Unscrew the fixing screws. They are located at the end of the canvas.
Now we can remove the mechanism, for which we will have to slightly pick up the end plate.
We install a new lock on a metal door in the reverse order.

The process of replacing a lever lock

Lever locks are characterized by high reliability. It is not easy to break into such a structure, but changing the locks on a metal door will require patience and accuracy. As a rule, lever locks have to be replaced entirely. An alternative option, in which it is enough to change the core and recode the levers, is possible only for expensive foreign models. But in this case, you will have to purchase a part of the appropriate brand and manufacturer.

Let's look at how to change the lock on a metal door step by step.

The lock must be opened and the bolts are fully retracted.
We dismantle door handles, armor plates and deadbolts.
We unscrew the screws from the end part of the door leaf.
Now you need to pry the end plate of the lock and remove it.
The new lock must match all parameters of the socket and the location of the mounting holes. Install it in reverse order.

Replacing deadbolt locks

In modern designs of metal entrance doors, deadbolt locks are increasingly common. It is no coincidence that these mechanisms are considered the most reliable: in the closed position, metal pins located inside the door leaf fit into holes located on the sides, top and bottom of the frame. This way the door receives reliable protection from all sides at once. Since the deadbolt mechanism is a complex system, the question arises: is it possible to change the lock on a metal entrance door yourself, or is it better to invite specialists?

To change the deadbolt locks on a metal door, you will have to dismantle the door leaf and disassemble it. The further process is similar to replacing the lever structure, but you will first have to unhook the upper and lower bolts from the lock. To do this you will need a wrench. After installing the new locking mechanism, the bolts are reattached. The process is, in fact, quite complex and not everyone can do it. It's better to invite a master.

For the well-known saying “my home is my castle” to be true in practice, you should not skimp on choosing a lock for the front door. The mechanism is reliable; careful handling and preventive maintenance will reduce the likelihood of a malfunction and ensure long-term productive operation of the mechanism.

We use the front door every day, and more than once. The lock with which it is equipped is also subject to intensive use, which over time cannot but affect the operation of its mechanism. This is one of the reasons when replacing locks on a metal door becomes a necessity from which no owner is immune. After all, a door lock is a guarantee of the safety of you and your property from malicious entry.

When choosing a security device for your front door, do not expect that the mechanism will provide you with a high level of protection while saving money.

Of course, an expensive and high-quality product will not save you from the process of replacing the lock, but in this case, servicing the mechanism - replacing locks on metal doors will not be such a frequent and difficult occurrence, both for a professional and for the owner, who will be able to change the lock with his own hands .

One of the objective reasons when a mandatory lock replacement is necessary is the loss of the key and the lack of its duplicates. But, nevertheless, if the key has been lost, and you are worried that it may be found by ill-wishers, you should take care to change the front door, if only to be sure of the safety of your home.

Also, the reason to quickly change the lock may be an unexpected breakdown or other failure that makes the subsequent operation of the mechanism simply impossible.

Depending on the type of locking device with which your door structure is equipped, it happens that replacing the internal part (for example, the cylinder) is more than enough, and sometimes only replacing the entire body can solve the problem.

Some tips that will reduce the chances of your device breaking and help you avoid buying a new one:

Do not apply force to the parts of the mechanism during its installation and when turning the key;
do not insert two keys at the same time on both sides of the door;
do not insert damaged or foreign keys into the keyhole;
do not turn the inserted key until it reaches the stop;
Don’t forget to periodically clean the device from dust and dirt and use lubricant.

In such situations, you can use the help of a specialist, or, having the necessary skills, change the locking device yourself.

Types of Door Locks

The technology for installing and replacing door locks directly depends on their types. Based on the type of locking, a distinction is made between overhead and mortise mechanisms. On a metal door, overhead locks are installed extremely rarely, unlike mortise locks. The consumer can choose from several types of locking mechanisms to install a lock on metal doors.

But the most commonly used and easy to maintain and replace with your own hands are the following mechanisms:

Suvaldny is a reliable and proven option for home protection.
Has a high degree of protection against burglary. The mechanism carries out work due to the presence of metal plates called levers. The greater their number, the less chance of hacking.
The cylinder consists of a cylinder (cylinder) and a system of pins with springs.
The mechanism is quite popular and convenient for installation in metal doors, along with other types (code and disk).

How to choose a new lock?

When purchasing a new mechanism to replace an old one, it is necessary to take into account factors such as the thickness of the doors and the gap between the door and the frame. A very important point is the dimensions of the old device (height of the body and depth of the well), the position of the cut out counterpart in the door jamb for the lock bolts, the thickness and number of bolts in the old mechanism, otherwise the device will dangle or will not fit into the door leaf.

Don’t forget about the size of the key (if it’s a lever lock), the length and offset of the cylinder. Knowing each of these values, you can choose the right model that will ideally replace the old mechanism.

Replacing the cylinder lock

When it comes to changing a cylinder lock, you need to know how it works. This locking device is based on a cylindrical secrecy mechanism located in the core. Turning the key provokes the movement of the pins of the mechanism, and they move into the designated grooves.

Anyone who plans to replace a lock on a metal door with their own hands must know its components:

cylinder or larva;
protective pad;
door knob.

The impressive advantage of the cylinder mechanism, which really captivates, is the ability to change only the lock cylinder, without using the entire device. Thus, if the key is broken or lost, only the core of the device – the cylinder – will need to be replaced.

Before you start replacing the lock on a metal door with your own hands, you should learn and understand that there are different methods for installing the cylinder (from the end, through an insert or screw for fastening, inside the door leaf). The same applies to the type of cylinder (disc, overhead, cruciform, etc.).

The process of replacing the cylinder in the lock

To begin, unscrew the locking screw located on the end strip of the metal door. Insert the key into the keyhole inside the room, and, holding the turntable on the reverse side, pull the cylinder towards the inside of the door. Now you should buy a new cylinder.

The dimensions of the larva and the distance from the outer edge of the core to the pawl must necessarily coincide with the old part. Carry out the same steps as at the beginning of the process, only in reverse order - insert the cylinder into the canvas from the inside and secure it with a locking screw through a special hole. The replacement of the larva was successfully carried out.

Housing replacement

In cases where it is impossible to limit yourself to just changing the cylinder, the sequence for changing the lock is as follows:

Push all the bolts inside the body (simply open the lock);
Carefully remove the larva from the well;
Don't forget to remove (if any) the door handles, protective trim and all latches. There is a decorative lining around the well; there is no need to remove it;
Unscrew two or four (depending on the type of mechanism) end screws for fastening. After this, pull out the mechanism body by prying up the end plate.

Ideally, you should buy a new mechanism from the manufacturer of the used doors. Perform the exact reverse of disassembly, and you can easily replace the lock on a cylinder-type metal door.

Replacing the lever lock

The process of changing the lever locking system has some specifics. For example, if the door is equipped with a domestically produced device, in case of problems with the key, you will have to change the entire system, because recoding will not be possible.

And, conversely, in the case of an imported device, it is possible to change only the secret part and corresponding recoding for a new set of keys. Changing lever-type locks yourself is quite difficult and labor-intensive; it can take a lot of time and effort.

The process of replacing the lever system

Similar to replacing the cylinder mechanism, move the locking bolts completely, that is, the door should be open. Pull the key out of the hole.

Don't forget to remove (if any) the door handles, protective trim and all latches.

Unscrew all fastening end screws. Pull out the door device body by prying up the end strip. Further, replacing a lock comes down to installing a new product in the door leaf. Some manufacturing companies exclude all of the above actions; it is enough to insert the key into the hole and automatically recode the levers.

Locks for metal doors are perhaps the most vulnerable point. After all, even if the door is highly durable and bulletproof, a low-quality lock can reduce all efforts to protect property to zero. That is why it is important not only to select them according to several important criteria, but also to carefully replace and install them.

Of course, you can find any specialist who can make a replacement through an advertisement. But if you have free time and a desire to learn how to do this work yourself. This will simultaneously save time and nerves, as well as remain completely confident in your safety and the quality of the work performed.

Types of castles

Before we start talking about how to repair it, we need to mention the most common mechanisms:

Electromagnetic. It is assumed that the device contains a powerful magnet;
Electromechanical. They contain electronic as well as mechanical parts;
Electronic. Assuming power from electricity;
Mechanical. They are usually divided into two subtypes, which differ in the structure of the mechanism: cylinder and lever;

Combined. They usually include two different or similar systems;
Pump-action;
Disk;
Cross-shaped.

There is also a division of types of mechanisms into non-expansion and expansion, which also include many additional subtypes.

Useful. Read a detailed review with tips in a separate article.

Tools and preparation

A procedure such as replacing a lock will definitely require the use of additional materials, especially if the door is metal. For example, devices such as a hammer, drill, and chisel are important. They are especially useful when the key is lost, but the lock core needs to be completely removed.

Preparatory measures include purchasing those parts that need to be replaced. At the same time, they should fit as closely as possible. The most ideal solution would be to purchase them from the same company where the doors were purchased. In such a case, you can be sure that they will fit exactly.

Replacing a lever type lock

This type of locking mechanism is considered one of the most complex. To avoid any incidents associated with operation and subsequent repairs, it is better to initially purchase European models of systems. This is explained by the fact that it is much easier to repair such a mechanism.

Manufacturers of Russian similar locks will need to change not only the core, but also the entire lock, since it is simply impossible to recode the lever.

Work to replace it yourself should be done in stages:

The door swings open so that the deadbolt can be opened completely. The locking system housing must be removed;

The keys, deadbolt, armor plate, and also the handle are removed from the core. It is permissible not to remove decorative parts;
The screws are unscrewed and after that the entire piece of equipment is pulled out and then the new one is installed.

If you simply need to recode the lever on a European lock, then it would be better to completely entrust this work to professionals.

Material on topic.- read our installation instructions.

Changing the cylinder lock

This device has a special security mechanism, which consists of a cylindrical cylinder. For example, if you lose a key, it will be enough to replace only the core, leaving the entire lock intact.

This model is considered simply ideal in terms of maintainability, since even a person without special skills will be able to cope with it.

It is important to carry out all work according to the following steps:

The old cylinder is removed. After this, the locking mechanism is opened using the keys, but then it remains in the lock;
The screws must be found and completely unscrewed. As a rule, they are used to secure the lock plate from the outside. It is always located on the surface of the door at the end;
The locking device is closed using a key;
Next, you should unscrew the screw in the center of the tongue;
After this, you need to feel the position of the larva and as soon as it gives in, pull it up. In this case, turning the key approximately 40 degrees is usually sufficient.

If a complete replacement of the larva is required, then the work as a whole is carried out similarly, but in the opposite direction.

First, you need to insert the key into the cylinder and turn it so much that the flag cannot interfere with inserting the cylinder into place;
Next, a special fastening bolt is unscrewed and the new cylinder is fixed;
The plate removed in advance is reinstalled in its place, after which the entire device should be checked for functionality.

In the event that it is in no way possible to remove the larva, which can happen due to its damage, then you will first need to drill it out. After this, you should knock it out, and then you can start opening the door using regular master keys.

At least once, every person faces the question of completely or partially replacing a door lock. In order to solve the problem effectively and at minimal cost, you just need to carefully familiarize yourself with the types of locking devices and the order of assembly of locking mechanisms.

According to the installation method, there are three types:
- padlocks are the simplest type of lock, attached to special loops or shackles. They are used more often for utility rooms - storerooms, sheds, garages. Without a key, such locks are opened using a pry bar;
  The strength of a padlock depends on the thickness of the shackle
- overhead - installed on the inner surface of the door leaf, the counter part is located on the frame. They are popular due to their ease of installation (they do not violate the integrity of the sash); they are rarely used on metal doors. Designers avoid such mechanisms, since doors equipped with a rim lock do not look very aesthetically pleasing;
  Most often, rim locks are used as additional locking on entrance doors.
- Mortise locks - mounted in the internal cavity of the door leaf, they are reliable and highly resistant to burglary. They are widely used on both internal and external doors. Hidden installation is an important advantage compared to other types of locks. They have a good appearance. They are used on doors made of various materials - wood, plastic, metal.
  Mortise locks are reliable and have a high level of security
According to the security class (secrecy level), locks are divided into four categories (assessed by the time required to open without a key):
- the first category includes mechanisms that can be hacked in 2–3 minutes;
- the second includes locks that open in 5 minutes;
- the third category consists of locks that will take a specialist at least 10 minutes to break;
- the fourth - the most reliable - will make even an experienced safecracker sweat for at least half an hour.
According to the internal structure and locking mechanism:
- deadbolt locks - differ from others in that they are opened by progressively moving the key along the keyhole. The long, rod-shaped key is milled with oblique notches that control access to the rotating mechanism;
  The deadbolt lock is opened by pressing the key into the keyhole
- Lever locks are a classic type, which is based on a combination of special code plates. It is almost impossible to physically destroy such a castle. The greater the number of levers (plates), the more difficult it is to select a master key. The key can be used to judge the degree of security of the lock - the more slots it has, the more complex the coding mechanism;
  The lever lock is considered a recognized leader among reliable locking mechanisms
- cylinder locking mechanisms are the most common in the modern world. Due to the fact that forced opening is quite troublesome, and the key size is very compact, the lock is popular among the population of Europe and Asia. Among cylinder locks, the most reliable are those whose keys have double-sided perforations;
  The advantage of a cylinder lock is the quick and easy replacement of the cylinder
- electronic locks. They are controlled by a set of characters (numbers and letters) on the input panel or using an electronic key. The principle of operation is similar to a car alarm. Today they are considered the most reliable locks;
  Electronic locks with an autonomous power supply are considered the most reliable.
- combination locks. The main visual sign is the absence of a key. If I may say so, the key is a combination of numbers stored in a person’s head. The longer the cipher, the more secure the lock. Often used in safes and secret rooms. The only drawback that experts note is that over time, frequently used symbols are erased on the buttons. And this will not escape the attentive eye of a burglar.
  The key to the combination lock cannot be lost

One of the types of locks not included in the list are the so-called screw locks, consisting of a bar that covers the door and a screw pin. Unscrewing and tightening is done manually. This type is well suited for basements, garages and other utility rooms that are rarely used.

Determining the type of lock

For the convenience of users, lock types are determined by the shape and size of the key. There are catalogs and descriptions that can be used to determine the type of locking mechanism by visual comparison. For example, a flat key with teeth on one side and a longitudinal groove means that the lock belongs to a series of cylinder locks, colloquially called English.

A characteristic feature of the English key is its portable size

The cross-shaped shape of the key (like a tetrahedral screwdriver) with teeth indicates that it belongs to the ZV-704 type of lock with three or two retractable bolts for interior, entrance or metal doors.

Each edge of the key serves as a unique secret code to the lock.

A pin key with two cut planes in the shape of a butterfly can belong to a CAM type locking mechanism (made in Russia) or an Italian CISA lever lock.

The lever key has a characteristic shape resembling a butterfly

A flat key with perforation is typical for MUL-T-LOCK (Israel) or KABA (Austria), etc.

Flat keys with perforation are difficult to counterfeit without special equipment

An experienced master locksmith will determine the type and type of locking device at a glance, which will save the time of a non-professional user.

The most common causes of breakdowns

According to relevant organizations, breakdown statistics (in descending order) are as follows:

Malfunction of the slamming tongue. The reason lies in the discrepancy between the dimensions of the outer opening on the counter part and the displacement of the door leaf.
Frame distortion and, as a result, incorrect door opening.
Sticking and difficulty turning the key in the keyhole. This is caused by clogging of the larva or chronic lack of lubrication.
Opening mechanism jammed. A possible reason is wear of rubbing parts or destruction of return springs. A change in the geometric shape and breakage of the key also leads to its jamming in the lock.

Less often, the failure of a lock is associated with a breakage of the case. Such situations arise due to mechanical impact, shock or overheating (for example, during a fire) of the metal parts of the lock.

Necessary tools to replace the lock

The vast majority of lock problems can be solved with a screwdriver. But in the master’s arsenal there is always a set of files, an oil can and flushing fluid for locks. You need a rag to wipe off dust and remove excess grease, as well as spare parts - steel springs, cylinders, replacement screws.

The main tool for repairing locks is a screwdriver

If the lock is jammed, an electric drill with a set of drills of different diameters will help to open it. If you have to drill out the larva, you will need a drill about 10 mm thick.

The larva is drilled out with a large-diameter metal drill

If one type of lock is changed to another, the work requires a hydraulic level, a measuring tool - a ruler, tape measure or caliper and a pencil. Enlarging the housing socket is done using a drill or a milling cutter with an extended cutter.

Using an electric router, holes are drilled to replace locks.

Sometimes you have to align the lock slot. On wooden doors this is done with a chisel with a thin blade.

Based on my own experience, I note that the most difficult thing is to reinstall the lock on doors that were installed in the dashing 90s of the last century. This is especially true for metal doors. In those days, there was not yet an abundance of standardized locks on the market; each locksmith invented his own method of installation and fastening. As a result, the structure acquired a bizarre configuration. For example, the famous Stirlitz lock, popular in garage cooperatives, consisted of two blocks - a secret locking system and a complex safe-type lock. Having dared to replace such a device, you need to prepare to solve a difficult puzzle. The usual practice in this case is to disassemble not only the locking mechanism itself, but also the complete dismantling of the panel covering.

How to replace a door lock yourself

If there is a need to repair a door lock, you should understand that this is not a difficult task, but it requires accuracy and attention to detail. You can save on installation work and avoid a specialist visit only if the lock is relatively simple. Expensive locks, especially lever-type locks, protected by additional anti-burglary devices, are recommended to be repaired with the assistance of a professional.

Video: replacing the Kale lock

How to change the lock cylinder

Replacement can be partial or complete depending on the design of the locking mechanism. The simplest operation for cylinder models is replacing the core (or cylinder). It contains a coding mechanism that recognizes only a given form of the key. Cylindrical inserts are opened with flat keys with perforation or teeth. Operations are carried out with care and precision to avoid damage to the door. The procedure is simple and requires only a screwdriver:

The fastening screws on the plate at the end of the door leaf are unscrewed. If necessary, the door handles are pre-disconnected.
The larva can be removed only after removing the outer linings
The screw securing the cylinder is unscrewed.
The fixing screw is located at the end of the door
The key is inserted into the keyhole and turned 15–20° until the insert is completely free.
Turning the key causes the steering cam to move
The dimensions of the new part must exactly match the dimensions of the old liner. The core is placed in the hole and tightened a little with a screw.
If after this the lock works easily and rotates the rotary tongue freely, the replacement cartridge is finally secured, tightening the fixation screw as much as possible.
After this, the operation of the lock is checked again and handles with protective pads are installed.

Video: how to replace the cylinder in a lock with your own hands

Replacing the lock body

Replacing the larva does not always solve the problem. Firstly, not all castles have it. Secondly, sometimes damage affects other mechanisms. In such cases, the lock is changed completely. This happens in the following order:

Door handles are removed. In older models, the handles are connected to each other by a quadrangular rod with a cotter pin. It needs to be bent and removed from the hole. New door handles are secured with a screw, which is unscrewed with a thin (2.5–3 mm) hex key.
The locking screw is located on the inner handle body
The larva is removed as described above.
At the end of the blade there are screws that hold the lock. They are unscrewed using a screwdriver.
An electric drill or screwdriver at low speed speeds up the process of disassembling the lock.
The housing is removed from the socket and a replacement is selected based on its size. Ideally, the new device should be completely identical to the original. When purchasing, you should pay attention to the linear dimensions of the case, thickness and location of attachment points. The surest way not to make a mistake is to take the old lock with you and choose exactly the same one in the store.
An exact copy of the locking mechanism will ensure success when replacing the device body
Installation is carried out in the reverse order - the new body is installed and fixed in its normal place, the cylinder is returned to its previous position and, finally, the door handles are attached. As a rule, all fasteners are included in the kit of a new lock; it is recommended to use it.

Video: how to replace the lock on the front door

Adaptation of a new lock body to existing holes

Factory-made locks cannot be adjusted. The dimensions of the case are unchanged. Therefore, for replacement it is important to choose an absolutely equivalent analogue. If this is impossible to do and you have to install a larger or smaller lock, it is worth considering the option of adjusting the socket in the door leaf to the dimensions of the new mechanism.

The markings for the recess are strictly symmetrical

The cavity in a wooden door is enlarged using chisels or an electric router. As a last resort, use a drill with a large diameter drill bit. It is not recommended to expand the socket, as this will weaken the doors. Without compromising strength, you can only deepen the lock groove. When carrying out work, it is advisable to maintain the dimensions of the hole for the new lock with an error of no more than 0.5–1 mm. If the body “dangles” in the door, you can tighten its fit using thin wooden plates.

An electric router significantly increases productivity

The classic nest enlargement algorithm consists of three operations:

Complete dismantling of the old castle. For ease of operation, it is recommended to remove the sash from its hinges.
Replacing a lock begins with disassembling all parts from the doors
Drilling the lock groove for a new lock. The hole is carefully centered, finding the middle of the end in the longitudinal and transverse axis.
Trying on the new building. If the result is satisfactory and the lock “sits” tightly in the socket, it is fixed with screws. Next - assembly according to the points given above.
The new lock should be placed in the recess with minimal clearance

You may have to not only deepen the groove, but also shift the hole for the core. In this case, the position of the cylinder is calculated so that the door handle lining covers the hole from the old lock.