How to Get the Cylinder out of a Kwikset Entry

Locate the screws on the door lock; most models feature one small screw located on the shield plate in front of the knob. Remove the knob from the door and unscrew the preset screws located on the shield. Many models have two Phillips screws on either side.

Turn the hardware toward you to reveal the inner mechanism of the door. Move the tab underneath the spindle until it is perpendicular to the bottom curve of the mechanism and the stems. This locks the spindle to the tab for removal.

Place the pointed end of the cylinder removal tool into the spindle and turn it to the left until the tab is lined up with the stems.

Insert the cylinder removal tool between one of the stems and the spring housing, which is located under the spindle. Press the tip of the tool toward the housing, while tilting the spindle downward. The spindle should fall out leaving the bottom half of the spindle inside the mechanism. If it doesn't, keep pressing in with the tool, and use your thumb to help ease out the spindle. If the spindle spins, repeat the first steps to ensure the spindle is locked in place by the tab.

Flip the cylinder tool over to reveal the forked side. Insert this end down the shaft of the remaining spindle, and into the hole at the center. Hold the tool in place and put your hand over the knob and lock on the other side to hold the plug and cylinder when it is removed.

Keep the tool at a right angle against the spindle. Move the tool back and forth to gain access to the spring housing underneath. You have opened the inner housing when the tool can move down further inside the device until it reaches the end. Don't force it open; it will take a few attempts. When the spring pops, the cylinder and plug will fall into your hand.