broken deadbolt

misterdunkirk

my deadbolt is broken and locked, does anyone have tips on how to drill it out without calling locksmith..thanks

Sammy

Is it keyed on both sides or does it have a thumbturn on the inside?

Any brand names on the lock or the key?

Whats broken on it?

misterdunkirk

keyed on both sides, key just turns, doesnt catch....brand unknown...are there other options besides drilling ? i know i will have to replace

Sammy

If the key spins completely around without stopping it would point to a broken tailpiece that connects the cylinder to the bolt.

Have you tried the key from both sides of the door?

Any names or number on the key that operates it?

misterdunkirk

have tried both sides, key doesnt turn 360 degrees but about 320 degrees and stops, no numbers or brand, old lock original i assume

Sammy

Could be the bolt has died in the extended/deadlock postion which is somewhat rare but does happen.

Are there any visible screws on the inside?

Can you post a pic?

misterdunkirk

there are no screws and we don't have a working digital camera so no pics

Sammy

Any idea how old the lock is?

misterdunkirk

probably at least 15-20 years old

redline

Take the hinge pins out.
Remove the door to further access the deadbolt.

Sammy

Hmm thats a toughy without knowing a brand name or having a pic to id.

Could be one of several brands all with different mounting methods.

Sammy

Good point Reline..

That would at least expose the bolt edge where most mfgs put thier name.

redline

there should be two screws on the interior that you remove to replace/repair it.

Kingfisher

get a "steppped drill bit" and drill right though it. Then open the bolt with a screw driver

gregzoll

There should be plugs covering the screws on the interior side of the door. Once the door is removed by pulling the hinge pins, you should be able to take off the Dead Bolt and install a new one.