i think one of the keys has been stolen and i need to replace lock. it is a mortice lock thats all i know really.do i have to get one with special measurments or are they all pretty standard? is it simple to do? help.
How do i change a lock on my external back door?
Unfortunately, motise locks are not standard and even the same manufacturer makes different models whose sizes and/or hole locations can be different. However, if your lock functions properly, replacement is not necessary. If you remove the armour [ the decorative plate on the door edge likely bearing the manufacturer's name and usually attached with 2 screws ], you should see 1 or 2 small headed screws located at a right angle to the mortise cylinder [ this is the approximately 1 inch round threaded cylinder that the key goes in ], loosen off [ turn the screw left and be careful to only loosen, try not to remove ]. If there are 2 screws, the one closet to the side of the door the key goes in. As you are loosening this screw, insert the key part way [ so the key does not operate the cylinder, it is used only to rotate the whole mortise cylinder for removal ] and try to turn the key anti-clockwise, while being gentle enough not to break the key. When the set screw is backed-off far enough, the mortise cylinder should begin to turn. At this point, be sure to note the mortise cylinder's position [ key cuts are facing up, depth [ count revolutions of cylinder,if needed ], locations of rings and/or collars and spacers ]. Unscrew the mortise cylinder and remove it from the lock. Take this and your remaining key to the locksmith of your choice and he/she will re-pin your cylinder and provide you with as many new keys as you need. Installation is the reverse of removal, however starting the threads of the mortise cylinder into the lock case can be a bit of a pain, so be sure not to cross-thread. When you reach the desired depth of the cylinder, be sure to check the key/cylinder function before the final set screw tightening [ making certain the cylinder also does not rotate anymore ] and armour installation.
How do i change a lock on my external back door?
You can just change the lock assembly, not the entire doorknob.
you could take it to a locksmith %26amp; have it rekeyed, cheaper than replacing
