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can you change a file cabinet lock

by Ms. Ettie Bailey Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Yes, filing cabinet locks can be replaced. But you need to be able to open the cabinet, have proper replacement parts, and know the replacement procedure.Apr 28, 2021

How do you replace a lock on a file cabinet?

How to Switch Filing Cabinet Lock Cores

  1. Open the top drawer of the filing cabinet so you can access the lock core. It's usually to the upper right of the top drawer.
  2. Make sure the core is in the unlocked position and inspect the back to determine how it's affixed. ...
  3. Pull the core straight out and insert the new core in the hole. ...

More items...

How do you unlock a filing cabinet?

  • Place a piece of masking tape over the lock. Press it down firmly, so you can see the small circular area in the center of the barrel.
  • Drill into the lock at medium speed for approximately 3/4 inch.
  • Continue drilling at a slow speed until you feel the drill bit catch the latch bar, which will pop open the lock.

How do you break into a locked filing cabinet?

Ways to Unlock a Locked File Cabinet Other than with Keys

  • Prying or Drilling the Drawer. If you think of throwing away the file cabinet after taking out the necessary documents, then prying or drilling the drawer may be applied. ...
  • Poking and tilting the cabinet. ...
  • Using a Spare Key. ...
  • Drilling the Lock. ...
  • Use of Knife. ...
  • Ask from the Manufacturer. ...
  • Hire a Locksmith. ...

How do you remove a file cabinet lock?

  • Open the top HON file cabinet drawer and pull out the contents. Once the drawer is empty, fully extend the drawer.
  • Find the c-clip securing the current lock to the cabinet.
  • Pull the existing lock from the front of the cabinet while dislodging it from the linkage for the lower drawers.

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How do I change the lock on my filing cabinet?

0:050:58How to: Change a Lock on a File Cabinet - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipResources you also need that brand's pull key which you can also get at office furniture. ResourcesMoreResources you also need that brand's pull key which you can also get at office furniture. Resources once you have that key stick it in turn it a little left. And there's the old lock.

How do I change the lock on a file?

0:091:11How to Remove & Install File Cabinet, Desk or Cubicle Lock CoresYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThen you will remove the core remove a key from the old lock core and insert the core removal keyMoreThen you will remove the core remove a key from the old lock core and insert the core removal key into the new lock core. Finally insert the new lock core into the lock housing.

Are filing cabinet locks universal?

Many of these locks are universal and will work within many applications. If you know the manufacturer of your furniture or lock please select your brand below to get started. If you don't know which brand or file cabinet lock option to select, let us help.

How do you change the lock on a Steelcase file cabinet?

0:000:55Lock Core Removal & Install on a Steelcase File Cabinet - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOnce completely inserted into the core. This key will remove the lock core from the cabinets. NextMoreOnce completely inserted into the core. This key will remove the lock core from the cabinets. Next simply insert the key into the new desired core and insert that core into the cabinets.

What kind of locks are on filing cabinets?

File cabinet locks can be mechanical or electronic and consist of pad locks, tubular cylinder locks, or cam style versions. Depending on the filing cabinet, lock bars as well as sliding teeth or keypad locks can also be selected. Regardless of the type used, some are available in either keyed or keyless configurations.

How do you open a filing cabinet without a key?

To pick your filing cabinet lock, start by straightening out a paperclip and leaving one of the ends curved. Then, hold the paperclip vertically and insert the curved end into the keyhole, which will push down on the pins inside.

Do all filing cabinets use the same key?

First, most locks used on desks and file cabinets use a standard "factory" lock provided by the furniture manufacturer. In many cases, the manufacturer provides only a small number of different key combinations. Some manufacturers provide as few as twenty different keys.

How do you remove a locked file cabinet without a key?

Do you want to learn how to remove a file cabinet lock without a key? By using a nail clipper file, you can open a file cabinet lock by inserting it into the keyhole and jiggling the file up and down until you push down all the pins and turn the lock into the unlocked position.

Can file cabinet keys be duplicated?

Your locksmith will give you a new key, but we recommend also making a few spares to ensure you never have to worry about a lost filing cabinet key again. Just be sure to keep your extra keys in a safe location where only you will be able to find them. Any hardware store can make duplicate keys for you.

How do you open a lock without a key with hairpin?

0:001:53How to Pick a Lock with a Bobby Pin - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTo pick a lock with a bobby pin. First bend open a bobby pin until it makes a 90 degree angle andMoreTo pick a lock with a bobby pin. First bend open a bobby pin until it makes a 90 degree angle and remove the rubber piece on the straight end make a slight bend at the tip of the straight. End.

How do you lock a file cabinet without a lock?

How to Lock a File Cabinet With No Lock – 6 Easy Methods!Use sensors.Hide the cabinet in boxes.Rearrange its placement.Paint for disguise.Use wallpaper.

How do I get rid of key cores?

Interchangeable cores are normally removed by inserting the control key then turning the key clockwise about 15 degrees. When the rotation stops, the core is ready for removal by pulling it out of the cylinder, knob, lever, etc. Without a control key, the core is completely locked.

How do I unlock a locked file?

Right-click on the file. In the menu that appears, select Lock File. To unlock, right-click the file and select Unlock File.

How do I unlock a file in Windows?

1. Unlock File Locked by Another UserPress Windows + R keys to bring up the Run command or right-click on the Start button and click on RUN.In Run Command window, type mmc and click on OK to bring up Microsoft Management Console.On the next screen, click on File > Add/Remove Snap-in.More items...

What does it mean when a file is locked?

File locking is a mechanism that restricts access to a computer file, or to a region of a file, by allowing only one user or process to modify or delete it at a specific time and to prevent reading of the file while it's being modified or deleted.

How do I close a locked file?

Select the locked file or folder and you'll see the handle in the details box at the bottom of the Process Explorer window. Right-click the handle and select “Close Handle.” If multiple processes are listed in the search window, you'll have to repeat this step to close the handle for each process.

How to pull a lock out of a cabinet?

There is a relatively small sized clip on the lock, called a C-clip, which connects the lock to the walls of the cabinet. Using pliers, pull the C-clip off. This way, you will be able to pull the lock out of its notch.

Can you change a file cabinet lock on your own?

If you feel that you cannot change the cabinet lock on your own, get assistance from a professional. The tools you use in this job can cause injuries if not used carefully and with skill, especially any cutting tools like the chisel.

Why do filing cabinets need locks?

Many of these cabinets come equipped with locks to help keep documents secure, and may include cam or plunger-type locking mechanisms. Quite often, the owners of these cabinets have to replace these locks due to lost keys, or to prevent unauthorized access in an office setting. Fortunately, it is fairly easy to replace a filing cabinet lock, even if you no longer have the key.

What to do if you don't have a key for a cabinet?

Most of these locks are gravity-based, so sometimes turning the cabinet upside down will allow you to open the drawer. If not, you can drive a regular drill bit straight through the cylinder of the lock (the part where the key goes).

How to secure a C clip to a cabinet?

Hold the C-clip flush against the inside wall of the cabinet. Insert the two prongs on the clip into the pre-drilled holes on the lock body to secure it in place.

How to get a lock out of a lock?

Grasp the C-shaped clip at the back of the lock with pliers. Once you've removed this clip, you should be able to slide the lock out of the opening.

Can you replace a lock if you lost the key?

If you've simply lost the key and need access to the cabinet, it's not always necessary to replace the lock. Copy the numbers off the front of the lock and take them to a local locksmith, along with a photo of the lock. Most locksmiths will be able to make a replacement key that will operate the cylinder.

Can you replace a filing cabinet lock?

Fortunately, it is fairly easy to replace a filing cabinet lock, even if you no longer have the key. Advertisement.

Why do you need to replace a file cabinet lock?from unitedlocksmith.net

File cabinet lock replacement is extremely important for the security and wellbeing of your private documents. Whether your filing cabinet is in a home or an office, the locks have to be reliable. So you need working locks that only certain people have keys to. No matter if your locks are working or not, you can undergo file cabinet lock replacement. That means if keys have gone missing, you should change your locks.

How to bypass a file cabinet lock?from unitedlocksmith.net

Several bypass methods may work on your file cabinet lock, such as an actuator bypass where you insert a small thin piece of metal into the lock. Lift the pins, push the tool through to the back of the lock. While pushing in, push down and depress the actuator that controls the latch.

How does a locksmith save you money?from unitedlocksmith.net

Firstly, the job will be done quickly saving you time (which is money). All parts that the locksmith uses for the job will be correct the first time, which ensures you are not spending money on hardware you can’t use. A locksmith will be able to open your cabinet, which is a necessity for file cabinet lock replacement, and do so without harming your property. Also, locksmiths may be able to offer to rekey the lock instead of a full replacement. The cost to rekey a lock, being cheaper than total file cabinet lock replacement.

What to do if your cabinet lock is not working?from unitedlocksmith.net

Uninstall the new cabinet lock if it is not working, and call a locksmith. 2. Removal Keys. File cabinet lock replacement may require special tools, such as a removal key (aka control key, change key, or pull key). These are keys that act in conjunction with your file cabinet key to allow the removal of the lock core.

What is a cam in a file cabinet?from unitedlocksmith.net

The cam, tailpiece, or latch of a file cabinet lock is on the opposite end as the keyway. It is what catches on the interior lip of the cabinet to prevent the drawer from opening. It will also interface with the lock assembly that keeps the lower drawers locked. There are hooked tailpieces, latches, and short or long cams.

Why are physical locks important?from unitedlocksmith.net

These types of locks may be ideal for your office security if you want to be able to change access protocols without worrying about who may still have a key. These electronic options are built with key control in mind. Standard locks may be more reliable due to their physical components, but that physicality keys to be copied covertly. Physical locks also need to be physically changed to invalidate existing keys. Consider these differences when you are going through the file cabinet lock replacement process.

How to measure for cam lock?from ehow.com

Measure the width of your cabinet opening and the width of your cabinet door. Subtract the width of the opening from the width of the door to determine how far your cabinet door extends past the cabinet opening. Place a mark on the exterior cabinet door where the interior cabinet opening begins. This lets you know where you can safely drill a hole for the cam lock without hitting the cabinet base.

The Importance of Using a File Cabinet

To begin with, think of why you need a file cabinet. The answer is easy — there are plenty of advantages when you use this type of drawer. In particular, its flexibility lessens the hassle of storing multiple files in a short and small space.

What You Will Need to Follow this Tutorial

Here is a quick overview of what you need to prepare for this project. They are mainly regular objects that you can easily get both online and in physical stores. With the help of these items, we are certain that you will be happy with the results.

How Can You Lock a File Cabinet Without a Lock?

In order to lock a file cabinet without lock, we would like to introduce a few basic yet effective methods for different budgets and requirements. They will support you to fix the situation temporarily in case of key loss.

Summary

In conclusion, if you want to lock a file cabinet with no lock, the methods above will be a true savior. But remember that they only work in the short run unless you wish to change the traditional lock completely into an advanced sensor.

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1.File Cabinet Lock Replacement: Everything You Need To …

Url:https://unitedlocksmith.net/blog/file-cabinet-lock-replacement-everything-you-need-to-know

34 hours ago If the existing lock is damaged, or if there is not a current lock, a new filing cabinet lock replacement is for you! Finding the correct lock kit for your item doesn’t have to be difficult. It’s …

2.How to Replace a Filing Cabinet Lock | Hunker

Url:https://www.hunker.com/12199010/how-to-replace-a-filing-cabinet-lock

35 hours ago Replacing a file cabinet lock is relatively easy if you can open the cabinet or the drawers and have the proper replacement parts and tools. However, you may still run into some problems, but a …

3.How to: Change a Lock on a File Cabinet - YouTube

Url:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NqLZc3cN0Fo

33 hours ago  · How to: change out or fix a lock core on a lateral file, vertical file, pedestal, storage cabinet, or an overhead in your office space. Shown is a Steelcase ...

4.How to Install File Cabinet Lock - YouTube

Url:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sxqsMcjsCYw

11 hours ago  · Learn how to install a HON file cabinet lock.

5.How to Lock a File Cabinet With No Lock – 6 Easy …

Url:https://revolar.com/lock-a-file-cabinet-with-no-lock/

21 hours ago  · Thanks to this kind of security, you will be able to manage the file cabinet easily without having to lock it in the normal way. 3. Hide the cabinet in boxes. Most people …

6.fireproof file cabinet lock replace old style - YouTube

Url:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wMQF5GS-Ixs

15 hours ago This makes it easier to switch them frequently. 1. Open the top drawer of the filing cabinet so you can access the lock core. It's usually to the upper right of the top drawer. Remove the drawer to...

7.Videos of Can You Change a File Cabinet Lock

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