The Tumbler Is Stuck in My Door Knob Lock

How it Works

• Tumbler locks work by having pins inside the lock that block the latch from moving back into the lock. Inserting the key into the plug allows the key indentations to match with the pins inside the lock . When the match is perfect, turning the key in the plug moves the pins away from blocking the opening mechanism, and that allows the knob to turn and bring the deadlatch out of the door jamb.

Reasons for Failing

• Although the tumbler lock is simple in nature, it can still fail. Dirt and debris can accumulate over time and clog the mechanism. Oil transferred from your fingers to the keys and then inside to the pins can also cause problems, especially in colder weather. Areas with heavy moisture may cause rust to form inside the lock. Taking the door knob off and cleaning the insides requires only several small screwdrivers and cleaning supplies such as cotton swabs, toothpicks and rubbing alcohol.

Removing the Knob

• A digital camera may come in handy while removing, cleaning and replacing the knob. It records each step and how the parts relate to one another if there is confusion about how it goes back together. Slipping a small, thin screwdriver under the protective ring on the inside door knob will pop the ring off. Some door knobs have direct access to the exterior screws without having to remove the ring. The visible two long screws are backed out from the knob. It is helpful to have someone holding the outer door knob while this step is performed.

Cleaning

• After removing the screws, the inner and outer door knob should pull off the door with a gentle tug, leaving the latch still inside the door hole. Pull the latch through the side hole. Clean the pins and other moving parts carefully with the cotton swab dipped into alcohol. Use the toothpick to reach any tight spots or to rub stubborn debris away. After the mechanism is clean and dry, spray it lightly with silicon spray, or dab a very small amount of light machine oil on the pins.

Working Again

• Put the key in the lock and move it back and forth to work the pins against the other parts. The pins should now turn smoothly and freely. If they are still frozen, there is something mechanically wrong with the lock, and the interior mechanism needs replacing. This lock components come as a complete set, and the set is available from locksmiths and at some hardware stores. Just pull the entire inner mechanism out with your fingers and drop the new one in its place. Replace the entire latch and lock the same way it was removed, and the door should work as intended.