movement of the plug in the
cylinder. The cylinder was
manufactured with a 3/32” spring
pin through the rear of the plug,
which retains the plug in the cylinder and fixes the tailpiece into
the rear of the plug, see figure 2.
This arrangement is the model
of simplicity and economy. (Now
isn’t that a nice way of saying
CHEAP.)
To repair the cylinder, remove
the 3/32” spring pin, and re-
move the plug from the cylinder.
Drop the top pins (drivers) and
springs, to make fitting the plug
easier. Re-drill the plug to ac-
cept a 1/8” spring pin, and slip
the plug back into the cylinder.
Because a larger diameter spring
pin will be used to secure the
plug in the cylinder, the wear in
the “raised ring” at the rear of
the cylinder will be reduced. You
most probably will not be able to
install the larger spring pin, with -
out filing the ring. “Flat file” the
raised ring, carefully and evenly,
to fit the plug to the cylinder.
Install the new spring pin and
check for smooth operation. The
plug should turn freely through
360° of rotation without binding.
If it binds, remove the plug and
file again, to create a good fit.
When you are satisfied that
the fit is satisfactory, reinstall
the springs and drivers, combi-nate the plug, and assemble the
cylinder. Always install the spring
pin with the seam facing away
from the raised ring. The seam is
sharp. It will “shave” the raised
ring on the cylinder, causing
a premature failure. Trim the
ends of the new retaining pin, to
clear the attachment screws.
The decision to repair or replace remains with the locksmith,
but nothing is more profitable
than service.
Shop Talk is where the butter
meets the bread. It’s about sharing
those little things we do every day,
which make our jobs a little faster,
a little easier or just a little discov -
ery of fact that solves a challenge. I
know most every locksmith carries
a cell phone. Most cell phones today
have built in cameras. Take a shot
of what you discover or create, that
may help a fellow locksmith along
the way, and send it in with a short
but detailed explanation of your
findings. It will be time well spent.
This column can not continue
without your support. Email me
at Bob@sievekingprodco.com, or
write to The National Locksmith
Magazine, 1533 Burgundy Parkway, Streamwood, IL 60107-1861.
Circle 265 on Rapid Reply
