Do it Yourself: Re: [DIY] How to make a key for a toolbox lock

20 February 2013

Re: [DIY] How to make a key for a toolbox lock

It really helps to have some idea of what shape you need.
If it is currently unlocked, look at the opening in the keyhole,
and if possible remove or take apart the lock (or just remove
a back cover plate).

Once you have an idea of the basic shape. Cover your trial
key with soot (candle flame), then try in the lock, where the soot
is worn off, is where you might need to remove material with a file.

Or just replace the entire lock, with something that has the key as
well. Look at places like Lee Valley, and a couple of the other
higher end woodworking mail order supply places. Might find something
you can swap out, and have a key provided that fits the lock.

I've made a few keys for locks that need a center hole in the end
of the key shaft and then a shaped tab. Weld on the tab,
drill the hole in the shaft (lathe helps), then file tab
to shape.

dave
On 02/16/2013 07:16 PM, Dale S wrote:
>
>
> *Some cheap locks use a key that is little more than a tang cut into a
> flat piece of steel. The lock may have a gate that requires a notch in
> the key, File the tang and remove as much of the rest of the metal as
> possible for the key to still turn about a center bypassing the gate.
> Some use a singe tang and others use a double. Looking into the lock
> you may be able to see where the center of rotation is which will let
> you know which style you need.
>
> *
> *Dale in the Flatlands. *
> mktrush wrote:
>>
>> I purchased an inexpensive tool box at auction that has a lock but no
>> key. there is no name on the toolbox or the lock. The lock is the type
>> that you might find on a desk or file cabinet. The numbers on the lock
>> are RH35. is there any hope in finding or making a key for this lock?

--
Dave Uebele (daveu@sptddog.com)