Tuffy Center Console Lock Failure

[jdcaples]

I'm pretty sure my lock failed. It's not opening with the key. The cylinder's not turning easily and not turning the full 180 degrees.

I'm resigned to the idea that I'll have to order a new push button lock from Tuffy.

I know they require a key number, and a picture of my driver's license and a picture of the lock set. That's fine.

They're closed right now so I thought I'd ask the community for guidance.

Right now I'm thinking I have to drill it out. Am I wrong?

I've never done anything like this before.

Should I start with a small bit and progressively go larger in diameter?

Can i get away with using an 18v cordless drill or do I have to pull out my Bosch 1199VSR 8.5-Amp 1/2-Inch Hammer Drill (there's no in between at my house right now)?

I wouldn't worry about it, but my State Park visitor's pass, registration and insurance cards are in there. I'm reluctant to drive it w/o access to registration and proof of insurance at the ready.

Thanks for any guidance!

-Jon

 

[gr8dain]

That sucks. When mine broke, it did it in the unlocked position so it was much easier to deal with. And when I started reading, I immediately thought about you needing to drill it out.

Are you able to grab onto the ring that sits right up against the metal of the console? If so if you could hold that while twisting something in the keyhole you might be able to loosen it up.

 

[jdcaples]

That sucks. When mine broke, it did it in the unlocked position so it was much easier to deal with. And when I started reading, I immediately thought about you needing to drill it out.

Are you able to grab onto the ring that sits right up against the metal of the console? If so if you could hold that while twisting something in the keyhole you might be able to loosen it up.

Thanks gr8dain.

The bezel is "nice 'n tight." I have channellock-type pliers that can grip, but it won't budge.

-Jon

 

[gr8dain]

Thanks gr8dain.



The bezel is "nice 'n tight." I have channellock-type pliers that can grip, but it won't budge.



-Jon

Too bad. I was able to remove mine that way. Good luck

 

[Lumpy Grits]

I've seen this happen when dirt gets into the lock.
Do you have access to an air compressor to blow the lock out?
IF-it is in fact the lock-Jam/hammer a flat bladed screwdriver into the key slot and with force. Turn the lock with the screwdriver. You'll bust all the lock's guts up. But it should open. This has work'd for me in the past.
LG

 

[hagar]

Prior symptoms ?
Had been working fine ?
The key is turning.
Something inside the console blocking the lock ?

 

[mtnwhlr]

Try some WD40 first.

 

[jdcaples]

No prior symptoms. Nothing in the box was w/in 3 inches of the moving parts.

The seals on the box kept everything dry. I'd have noticed if it dirt/grime built up, 'cuz I look for things like that. It's always looked clean.

The screw driver trick didn't work for me. I drilled out the lock set but couldn't manage to get the latch to release.

After looking at Tuffy's diagrams and product literature I was out of ideas and patience, so I just started cutting metal.

Thanks for the thoughts everyone!

-Jon

 

[Lumpy Grits]

THX for the update.
LG