If you have lost your Kwikset key or need to rekey your lock for security reasons, rekeying it without a key is possible. The process requires some patience and precision, but it’s a cost-effective alternative to calling a locksmith. This guide will walk you through the steps involved in rekeying a Kwikset lock without a key, ensuring that your property remains secure and accessible.
Before embarking on this project, gather the necessary tools and materials. These include a small screwdriver, a flathead screwdriver, a paperclip, and a new set of Kwikset keys. Ensure your work area is well-lit and free from distractions. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from potential hazards.
Begin by removing the lock’s faceplate with the small screwdriver. Next, locate the C-clip on the lock’s side, which secures the cylinder in place. Use the flathead screwdriver to carefully pry the C-clip out of its groove. With the C-clip removed, gently pull the cylinder out of the lock body. Now, use the paperclip to depress the small pin located inside the cylinder. While holding the pin down, insert the new key into the cylinder and turn it to the locked position. This process will reset the cylinder to the new key, effectively rekeying your Kwikset lock without the need for an original key.
Gathering Essential Tools
Before embarking on the rekeying process, it is crucial to assemble the necessary tools to ensure a successful and efficient outcome.
Essential Tools:
1. Pinning Kit: This specialized kit includes a variety of punches and drivers designed for manipulating the pins within the lock cylinder, enabling easy rekeying.
|
Punch Types |
Functions |
|---|---|
|
Starter Punch |
Initiates the pinning process by pushing the old pins out of the cylinder. |
|
Follower Punch |
Supports the starter punch, ensuring that the old pins are fully ejected. |
|
Driving Punch |
Inserts the new pins into the cylinder, aligning them correctly. |
2. Key Duplication Machine: This machine allows you to create new keys that correspond to the revised pin configuration, ensuring seamless operation with the rekeyed lock.
3. C-Clamps: Two C-clamps are required to secure the lock in place during the rekeying process, providing stability and preventing any movement that could interfere with the delicate pin manipulation.
4. Safety Glasses: Safety precautions are paramount when working with tools. Safety glasses protect your eyes from flying debris or accidental tool slips.
Removing the Lock Cylinder
Before removing the lock cylinder, gather the necessary tools: a small flathead screwdriver, a paperclip or small nail, and a new key. Ensure the door is unlocked and open for safety.
- Locate the Release Hole: On the faceplate of the lock, find a tiny hole, usually near the handle. This is the release hole.
- Insert Paperclip or Nail: Gently insert a straightened paperclip or small nail into the release hole and press inward. You may encounter slight resistance, but with gentle pressure, the cylinder should slide out.
- Extract the Cylinder: Once the cylinder is loose, grasp it and pull it straight toward you. It should come out smoothly.
- Inspect the Cylinder: Examine the cylinder carefully. Look for any damage or wear that may have caused the keying issue.
| Tools Needed |
|---|
| Small flathead screwdriver |
| Paperclip or small nail |
| New key |
Disassembling the Cylinder
To disassemble the cylinder, follow these steps:
1. Remove the C-clip.
The C-clip is a small, horseshoe-shaped piece of metal that holds the cylinder in place. To remove it, use a small flathead screwdriver or a pair of needle-nose pliers. Insert the tool into the small hole in the side of the lock, and gently pry the C-clip off. The cylinder will slide out of the lock once the C-clip is removed.
2. Remove the plug.
With the cylinder removed from the lock housing, hold it with the keyhole facing up. Insert the tip of a small flathead screwdriver into the small hole at the bottom of the cylinder. This is the pinhole where the driver pins are located. Push down on the screwdriver to release the plug from the cylinder.
3. Remove the driver pins.
The driver pins are the small, cylindrical pins that are located in the plug. They are held in place by springs and key pins. To remove them, use a small pick or a pair of tweezers. Carefully lift the driver pins out of the plug, one at a time. There are usually five or six driver pins in each cylinder.
| Pin type | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Driver pin | Plug | Small, cylindrical pin that is lifted by the key |
| Key pin | Cylinder | Small, spring-loaded pin that engages the driver pin |
| Spring | Inside the key pin | Small, cylindrical spring that pushes the key pin outward |
Removing the Old Plugs
To remove the old Kwikset lock plugs, follow these steps carefully:
-
Insert the Rekeying Tool
Insert the rekeying tool into the lock cylinder from the exterior side of the door. Push it in until it engages with the retaining ring.
-
Rotate the Rekeying Tool
Rotate the rekeying tool counterclockwise until the retaining ring is loose and can be removed.
-
Remove the Retaining Ring
Carefully remove the retaining ring from the lock cylinder. It may be necessary to use a small screwdriver or pliers to assist in this step.
-
Remove the Plugs
Once the retaining ring is removed, the old plugs can be easily removed by pressing on them with a small screwdriver or punch. The plugs will fall out of the lock cylinder.
Plug Number Position in Cylinder 1 Closest to the exterior of the door 2 Second from the exterior of the door 3 Third from the exterior of the door 4 Fourth from the exterior of the door (not present in all Kwikset locks)
Inserting the New Plugs
Inserting the new plugs is the most crucial step in the rekeying process. Haste or carelessness can damage the lock, so proceed with caution.
Aligning the Plugs
Before inserting the plugs, check if the new key aligns correctly with the plug holes. If it doesn’t, use a small screwdriver or key file to adjust the height of each plug by tapping on the top or bottom. Ensure that all plugs are perfectly aligned before inserting them.
Inserting the Driver Plug
The driver plug is the largest and has a hole in the center. Insert the driver plug into the corresponding hole on the face of the lock. Gently press down on the plug until it clicks into place. Do not force it, as this can damage the lock.
Inserting the Key Pins
Next, insert the key pins into the driver plug. Key pins have a spring and a pin at the bottom. Hold the key pin with your thumb and forefinger, then align the spring with the corresponding hole in the driver plug. Push down on the spring until the pin bottoms out.
Inserting the Master Pins
Master pins are similar to key pins but have a flat top instead of a pin. They create the shear line that determines which key will open the lock. Insert the master pins into the holes above the key pins. Push them down until they reach the shear line. The shear line should be slightly below the edge of the driver plug.
Checking Alignment
Once all plugs are inserted, check if the key still aligns correctly. If it does, the rekeying is complete. If it doesn’t, recheck the alignment of the plugs and make any necessary adjustments.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Align the plugs with the key. |
| 2 | Insert the driver plug. |
| 3 | Insert the key pins. |
| 4 | Insert the master pins. |
| 5 | Check alignment and make adjustments if necessary. |
Reassembling the Cylinder
Once you have removed the core from the lock, you will need to reassemble it in order to install it back into the lock. To do this, follow these steps:
- Insert the new key into the cylinder and turn it to the locked position.
- Hold the cylinder in one hand and the housing in the other hand.
- Align the pins in the cylinder with the slots in the housing.
- Push the cylinder into the housing until it is fully seated.
- Turn the key to the unlocked position and remove it.
- Test the lock to make sure that it is working properly.
Here is a table summarizing the steps for reassembling the cylinder:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Insert the new key into the cylinder and turn it to the locked position. |
| 2 | Hold the cylinder in one hand and the housing in the other hand. |
| 3 | Align the pins in the cylinder with the slots in the housing. |
| 4 | Push the cylinder into the housing until it is fully seated. |
| 5 | Turn the key to the unlocked position and remove it. |
| 6 | Test the lock to make sure that it is working properly. |
Once you have reassembled the cylinder, you can install it back into the lock. To do this, simply insert the cylinder into the lock body and turn it until it is fully seated. Then, insert the screws and tighten them until the cylinder is secure.
Installing the Cylinder Back in the Lock
7. Carefully align the cylinder with the lock body. Hold the cylinder in place with one hand and insert the retaining pin with the other hand. Ensure that the retaining pin fully engages and secures the cylinder in place. Use a small hammer or screwdriver to gently tap the retaining pin into its hole if necessary.
8. Once the cylinder is properly positioned, check if it rotates smoothly without any obstructions or resistance. The keyway should be oriented in the correct direction to allow for key insertion.
9. Reinstall the lock cover or escutcheon over the cylinder assembly. Use the screws to secure the cover in place, ensuring a tight fit to prevent any play or movement of the cylinder.
10. Verify the proper functioning of the lock by inserting a new key and testing the operation. The key should smoothly enter the keyway, turn the cylinder, and extend or retract the bolt as intended.
11. If the new key does not operate the lock properly, check for any misalignment or binding in the cylinder assembly. Reposition the cylinder or check if the retaining pin is correctly engaged. If the problem persists, remove the cylinder again and consult the manufacturer’s instructions or a locksmith for assistance.
Installing the New Key
Once the lock cylinder is disengaged and the old key has been removed, it’s time to install the new key. Follow these steps to insert the new key and complete the rekeying process:
Step 8: Rotate the Cylinder Back into Place
-
With the new key in the keyway and the lock cylinder in your hand, carefully rotate the cylinder back into place in the lock body. Make sure to align the keyway on the cylinder with the keyway on the lock body. Avoid pushing the cylinder all the way in just yet.
-
While holding the lock knob or lever still, slowly rotate the key clockwise and counterclockwise several times. This helps distribute the tumblers and ensure the new key works smoothly.
-
Now, push the lock cylinder into the lock body until it is fully seated. Turn the key again to confirm that it operates the lock correctly.
-
If the new key works without any issues, reassemble the lock by replacing the base plate, strike plate, and any other components you removed during the rekeying process. Tighten all screws securely.
Testing the Lock
Before attempting to rekey your Kwikset lock, it’s crucial to test the lock to determine if it’s in good working condition. Follow these steps to test the lock:
1. Insert a Key into the Lock
Insert the original key that came with the lock into the keyhole. If the key turns smoothly and unlocks the door, proceed to the next step.
2. Remove the Lock Cylinder
Remove the screws holding the lock cylinder in place. Using a screwdriver, gently push on the cylinder to remove it from the lock. If the cylinder comes out easily, it’s likely that the lock is not keyed correctly.
3. Examine the Lock Cylinder
Inspect the lock cylinder for any visible damage or wear and tear. Look for bent or broken pins, as this could indicate a damaged lock.
4. Test the Lock with a New Key
Insert a new key into the lock cylinder. If the key turns smoothly and unlocks the door, it indicates that the lock is functioning properly and can be rekeyed.
5. Check the Door Strike
Ensure that the door strike plate is properly aligned with the lock latch. If the strike plate is not aligned, it could prevent the lock from closing completely.
6. Reassemble the Lock
If all the tests are successful, reassemble the lock by inserting the lock cylinder back into the lock body and securing it with screws.
7. Test the Lock Again
After reassembling the lock, test it again to make sure it’s operating correctly. Insert the new key and check that it unlocks and locks the door smoothly.
8. Check for Tightening
Ensure that the screws holding the lock in place are securely tightened. Loose screws can cause the lock to malfunction.
9. Troubleshooting
If you encounter any issues during the testing process, here are some troubleshooting tips:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Key doesn’t turn smoothly | Check for obstructions in the keyway or damaged lock pins. |
| Lock doesn’t unlock the door | Check the door strike alignment and make sure the lock cylinder is properly seated. |
| Lock feels loose | Tighten the screws holding the lock in place. |
How To Rekey A Kwikset Lock Without A Key
Rekeying a Kwikset lock without a key can be a simple and straightforward process that can be completed in a few steps. Here’s a detailed guide on how to do it:
- Remove the lock: Start by removing the doorknob or lever from the door. Use a screwdriver to unscrew the screws that hold it in place.
- Disassemble the lock: Once the doorknob or lever is removed, you can disassemble the lock. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the lock together and separate the two halves of the lock.
- Remove the old cylinder: Use a pair of pliers to grip the old cylinder and pull it out of the lock body.
- Insert the new cylinder: Take the new cylinder and insert it into the lock body. Make sure that the keyway is aligned with the keyhole in the lock body.
- Install the lock: Reassemble the lock and install it back onto the door. Secure it with the screws that you removed earlier.
- Test the lock: Insert a new key into the lock and turn it to make sure that it works properly.
Additional Tips
Here are a few additional tips that can help you rekey a Kwikset lock without a key:
- If you don’t have a new cylinder, you can purchase one from a hardware store or online retailer.
- Make sure that the new cylinder is compatible with your Kwikset lock.
- If you have any difficulties rekeying the lock, you can consult a locksmith for assistance.
Troubleshooting
If you are having trouble rekeying your Kwikset lock, here are a few things to check:
- Make sure that the new cylinder is properly aligned with the keyway in the lock body.
- Make sure that the screws that hold the lock together are tightened securely.
- If the lock still does not work properly, you may need to replace the entire lock assembly.
Here is a table that summarizes the steps involved in rekeying a Kwikset lock without a key:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Remove the doorknob or lever from the door. |
| 2 | Disassemble the lock. |
| 3 | Remove the old cylinder. |
| 4 | Insert the new cylinder. |
| 5 | Install the lock. |
| 6 | Test the lock. |
How To Rekey A Kwikset Lock Without A Key
If you’ve lost your keys or need to change the lock for security reasons, you can rekey a Kwikset lock without a key. Here’s how to do it:
1. **Gather your materials.** You will need a small screwdriver, a new Kwikset key, and a rekeying kit.
2. **Remove the lock cylinder.** Use the screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the lock cylinder in place.
3. **Disassemble the lock cylinder.** Use the rekeying kit to disassemble the lock cylinder.
4. **Reassemble the lock cylinder with the new key.** Use the rekeying kit to reassemble the lock cylinder with the new key.
5. **Install the lock cylinder.** Insert the lock cylinder into the lock and secure it with the screws.
6. **Test the new key.** Insert the new key into the lock and turn it to make sure it works.
People Also Ask
How do I get a key for a Kwikset lock without the original?
If you have lost your Kwikset key, you can obtain a new one by contacting the manufacturer. You will need to provide them with the lock’s serial number and proof of purchase.
How much does it cost to rekey a Kwikset lock?
The cost of rekeying a Kwikset lock will vary depending on the locksmith you choose. However, you can expect to pay between $50 and $100.
Can I rekey a Kwikset lock myself?
Yes, you can rekey a Kwikset lock yourself with a rekeying kit. However, it is important to follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging the lock.
