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Use a screwdriver to loosen the lock assembly, then remove it by hand.
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A lock is a door fastener that is operated by a key or knob. A latch is a device that holds the door closed. A door knob releases a door latch. A hinge allows an attached door to swing. Together these devices open, close, and secure doors.
Exterior doors often have both a key-in-knob lock and a deadbolt or rim lock. Interior doors usually require only a door knob and latch. Both slide the latch into a strike plate mounted on the door jamb.
Clean a lock assembly:
- Remove the lock assembly from the door.
- Soak the assembly with cleaning solvent, scrub it with a small brush, and dry it thoroughly with canned air.
- Lubricate the components with penetrating oil.
- Reassemble the lock assembly into the latch and reinstall it in the door.
Align a cylinder:
- Loosen the mounting screws that hold the cylinder on the door.
- Insert the key in the cylinder, then move the cylinder so that the key's teeth face upward.
- Retighten the mounting plate screws and remove the key.
To fix a bolt that doesn't move:
- Make sure that the cylinder is aligned (see above).
- Remove any debris or paint around the bolt and lubricate it with lightweight oil.
- If necessary, disassemble the cylinder and bolt to check for loose or broken parts and repair or replace any problem pieces.
Realign a strike plate:
- Unscrew the strike plate screws and remove the plate.
- Trim the hole in the jamb as needed so the bolt enters the jamb hole.
- Temporarily place the strike plate over the jamb hole and close the door to make sure the strike plate fits in the hole. Adjust as needed.
- Hold the strike plate in place while closing the door to verify that the bolt fits through the strike plate and into the jamb hole.
- Continue holding the strike plate in position and open the door. Mark and drill the strike plate holes, then install screws to hold it in place.
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