Introduction

Welcome to this unique article where we delve into the fascinating world of lock servicing. Today, we have a special treat—a very old die-bold lock that needs to be serviced. In this article, we will take you through the process of tearing down, cleaning, and examining the various parts of the lock. We will also explore the possibility of changing the combination and tightening the wheel pack. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy this journey into the intricate workings of a vintage lock.

Overview of the Lock

Before we begin the tear-down process, let's take a moment to appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of this old lock. Made of thick brass, possibly cast bronze, this lock is a testament to the quality materials used in its construction. It features a bolt, a driver, and a wheel pack with four wheels. To provide a comparison, we'll also examine a more modern lock with thinner wheels, highlighting the significant size difference.

Tear Down Process

To properly service the lock, we need to first tear it down. Using a C-clamp, we carefully remove the wheel pack from the lock body. This allows us to access the individual wheels for cleaning and inspection. As we disassemble the lock, we pay close attention to any signs of damage or wear.

Cleaning the Lock

Now that the lock is disassembled, it's time to clean each component thoroughly. This lock, being from a fire safe, is particularly dirty due to the presence of gypsum or asbestos. We scrape out any accumulated gunk and ensure that all wear surfaces are clean and free of debris. By removing the dirt and grime, we can restore the lock's functionality.

Examining the Wheels

As we clean the wheels, we carefully inspect them for any signs of damage. One wheel shows significant rubbing, with the brass worn off. Another wheel has a hole in it, which could potentially cause problems. We also examine the washers, which prevent the wheels from spinning and causing binding issues.

Changing the Combination

The customer has requested a combination change, so we assess whether it's possible with this lock's age. Changing the combination involves aligning the holes in the wheels by dialing the correct combination, inserting a safe key through the back cover, and turning it to open the wheels. If all goes well, we can dial in a new combination. However, due to the lock's age, there is a possibility that we may not be able to change the combo.

Tightening the Wheel Pack

During the tear-down process, we noticed that the wheel pack was loose. To rectify this, we flip the lock over, use a groove-worn c-clip, and tighten the wheel pack. The goal is to create a balance between movement and stability, ensuring that the wheels neither flop nor remain too tight.

Final Cleaning

With the combination change and wheel pack tightening complete, we give the lock a final cleaning. We meticulously remove any remaining dirt or debris to ensure optimal performance. Although the lock should not accumulate dirt within the safe, it had gathered some over time.

Testing and Operating the Lock

Now that the lock is clean and back together, it's time to test its operation. Using the dialing process—turning to the right, left, and so on—we verify that all the wheels pick up correctly for the desired combination. Additionally, we ensure that the driver engages the hook and retracts the bolt linkage when the correct combination is dialed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, working on this vintage lock has been a rare treat. We have seen firsthand the intricacies of its design and the attention to detail put into its construction. Through the tear-down, cleaning, and examination process, we have not only serviced the lock but also gained a deeper understanding of its inner workings. Thank you for joining us on this journey into the world of lock servicing, and we hope you found it as fascinating as we did.

Highlights

A unique opportunity to service a very old die-bold lock
Detailed tear down and cleaning process
Examination of the wheels for any damage or wear
Possibility of changing the combination
Tightening the wheel pack to ensure stability
Testing and verifying the lock's operation
Appreciation for the craftsmanship of vintage locks

FAQ

Q: Can I change the combination of an old lock? A: While it is possible to change the combination of some old locks, the age of the lock can be a limiting factor. In some cases, changing the combination may not be feasible.

Q: Why is it important to clean the lock thoroughly? A: Cleaning the lock removes dirt, debris, and grime that can hinder its functionality. It also allows for a more accurate examination of the lock's parts.

Q: How do I know if a lock's wheels are damaged? A: During the cleaning process, inspect the wheels for signs of rubbing, worn-off brass, or any holes. These can indicate potential damage.

Q: Why is tightening the wheel pack important? A: Tightening the wheel pack ensures that the wheels have the right balance of movement and stability. This prevents them from being too loose or too tight.

Q: What is the purpose of the combination change key? A: The combination change key is used to align the holes in the wheels, allowing for a new combination to be set.

Q: Can modern locks be significantly different from vintage ones? A: Yes, modern locks often have thinner wheels and are designed differently. Vintage locks tend to have thicker and more robust components.

Q: How do I test the operation of a lock after servicing? A: Use the dialing process specified for the lock, ensuring that all wheels pick up correctly and that the driver engages the hook to retract the bolt linkage.

Resources:

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