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To drill open a mortise lock means creating a substitute "shear line". For those who are not locksmiths, a shear line is created when the proper key is inserted into the lock and the top and bottom pin tumblers line up flush to turn the plug.
Using a 1/4 inch carbide tip drill bit, drill about an 8th of an inch above the keyway. It's advisable to use a center punch so the drill bit doesn't "walk" and damage the whole cylinder.
Start drilling slow at first so the drill bit can get a "bite" and not fly off and cause you injury or damage the door. Then apply pressure to drill through the plug but don't push too hard or the bit might break off in the lock. When you feel a slight jolt, it means you drilled through a pin.
Keep going until you've drilled through all 5 pins. Do not drill too deep or you'll damage the whole lock mechanism. Then stop drilling and use a pick or scratch awl to scape the remaining pins out of the chambers and you can turn the plug with a screwdriver and it will unlock the door.
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∙ 13y ago
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How can you open a mortise lock without a key?
I've had to open a few when people lose their keys. Generally it is a 3 or 5 lever lock and by checking the workings on another-that's it the one you keep in the back of the van- you can sort out where to drill through the door and lock to get access to the levers, which you can then hook up with a screwdriver. Another way is to cut through the stile and just allow the door to open
What is unique about a mortise lock?
A Mortise Lock is unique in that when it is fitted by a locksmith, a small section - Mortise is cut through the door frame to connect the lock. The lock is different to others in that a homeowner cannot fit it as one requires wood making knowledge and tools and it is labour intensive.
What is a Mortise Lock used for?
A mortise Lock is most commonly used on doors. It requires a "pocket" or hole to be cut in the door, and a plate to be places in the frame that the door will attach to when closed.
Why must a plug in a mortise cylinder lock be turned slightly before removing it from the cylinder?
You turn a mortise cylinder lock slightly before removing to release it from the lock housing. There is an obstruction in the lock design to keep the cylinder more secure in the lock. After you remove the holding screw from the lock body you can turn the cylinder slightly to release it and remove from the lock housing. Not all mortise cylinders are designed this way. Some of the cylinders unscrew from the lock housing after releasing the cylinder retaining screw.
Can you use a mortise drill bit in a drill press?
Yes, you can. I have done so many times. Just be sure to reduce your drilling speed.
How do I open 1972 nova trunk with broken lock?
Either drill lock out or try removing rear seat back for access
How do you remove the trunk lock of a 1971 Pontiac Ventura?
You have to open the trunk lid, under the lock on the inside you will find a screw, remove the screw and the lock retaining clip, pull the lock out. If you can not open the trunk lid, drill the lock center out, and you should be able to open with a screw driver.
How can you break into the trunk of a 1998 Mercedes?
drill the lock and push in, lift open the trunk door
How do you open sentury safe without key?
Firstly, is it yours? If not, then you can't. Contact the manufacturer and see if you can get a replacement key. If not, call a locksmith. They can usually pick the lock open. If not, they can also drill it open. If they won't drill it, look up instructions on how to drill out a lock. If that's not possible, see if it can be sawed open. If not, hire a company to blast it open. If all else fails, re-evaluate the value of the item inside the safe. Is it really that valuable?
How can I open a locked glove box in a Crown Victoria?
Without a key or a lock smith the most common way is to drill the lock out. Start with a 1/4 bit and drill in the center of the key hole. Keep moving to larger bits till the lock tumblers break out, then you can install a new lock.
What is a mortise?
A Mortise Cylinder (also mortice lock in English) is one that requires a pocket-the mortise-to be cut into the door or piece of furniture into which the lock is to be fitted. In most parts of the world, mortise locks are generally found on older buildings constructed before the advent of bored cylindrical locks, but they have recently become more common in commercial and upmarket residential construction in the United States. They are widely used on all ages of domestic properties in Europe.
Can not open mortice lock with backdoor key?
Does the key spin continuously in the cylinder? Or does it not fully rotate to the unlocked position? Is it a deadbolt mortise or latch mortise. If the key is spinning continuously the tail piece on the cylinder is broke or has separated from the lock. Replace the cylinder but it will need to be rekeyed or replace the tailpiece if it came off and it is the type that screws on then you don't have to replace the cylinder or have it rekeyed. If there is internal failure in the mortise lockset, especially if it is 10 to 15 years old it should be replaced. This will normally require the services of a locksmith. If your're in Maryland let me know.
