[NewEnglandProp]

Over the years we have come across quite a few weird key codes, and having said that we have had to go and purchase a new code last minute every time a new one pops. I see that they sell re-pinning kits so you can change codes. Does anyone out there do this and if so is it worth it?

 

[mtmtnman]

Over the years we have come across quite a few weird key codes, and having said that we have had to go and purchase a new code last minute every time a new one pops. I see that they sell re-pinning kits so you can change codes. Does anyone out there do this and if so is it worth it?

Piece of cake. I repin over 60% of what i do.

http://s1112.photobucket.com/albums/k488/mtbankownedwork/?action=view&current=MVI_0310.mp4

 

[SwiftRes]

Great video. I don't repin but that video makes me want to

 

[BPWY]

I haven't repinned in months but still have the goods.

 

[BigP]

Repinning is the way to go. Easy to learn very inexpensive, since the two most common locks you will run across are the Schlage SC-1 and Kwikset KW-1 style locks.

Once unlocked most can be repinned with only a small amount disassembly. Partswise average is $0.83-$1 in parts (Unless you tend to be careless). Pins average about $2.50-$3.00 per pack of 50 and the average residential lock is 5 pins. 3/50=0.1666; 0.1666 x 5 = 0.833 per lock. And if you happen to find a 6 pin it works out to $1.00 per lock. And precut keys are less than $1.00 when bought 10+ at a time.

Save the new locks for the unpickable locks. A savings of about $10 on average.

A warning is due and here it is: Check your local and state laws where you operate! You may be required to obtain a Locksmith License to even possess a repin kit not to mention the lockpicks and related paraphernalia. $10 savings per lock will not cover legal fees, and bond to get you out of jail if one is required and you don't have it with you.

 

[NewEnglandProp]

Big P thanks I posted that a while back and have a kwikset kit but I have not given it a run yet:whistling2:

edit to say -> prob will now though, thanks!

 

[BigP]

Here are some useful links for the two most popular residential locks you are likely to encounter.

Other than some mechanical differences the process is basically the same for most manufacturers.

Kwikset:
Basic Rekeying:
http://www.kwikset.com/Libraries/Literature/Rekeying_Manual.sflb.ashx
Additional manuals and information relating to Kwikset can be found at:
http://www.kwikset.com/Customer-Support/How-To-Center/Repair-Troubleshooting.aspx

Schlage:
Basic Rekeying:
http://consumer.schlage.com/Project Documents/P513-325.pdf
Additional manuals and information relating to Schlage can be found at:
http://consumer.schlage.com/Service-Support/Pages/InstructionsandManuals.aspx


Cheers! :drink:

 

[sixxgunner]

Thanks for the information. Got a few 5 gallon buckets of locks that I can learn this skill on!

 

[Aimpoint Inspections]

I only use kwikset smart key lock the best ever!
I saved over 100 of them from my last boss from wanting to go to schlage in his apartment complex.

 

[Splinterpicker]

I bought a repin kit in 07 and have not run out of pins yet. Be sure to get the better tools and some shims. You take a shim ( looks like a piece of aluminum foil and slide it between the cylinder and the housing when you have it apart and feel for the "shear line" while slowly very slowly moving an uncut key in and out of the cylinder to move the pins one set at a time. When the pins are at the point where the shim is you feel it slide between the top and bottom pins. the shim slides between the pins and holds them apart so as to not "lock" the cylinder to the housing. shimming video

 

[MidWestSwindler]

Piece of cake. I repin over 60% of what i do.

http://s1112.photobucket.com/albums/k488/mtbankownedwork/?action=view&current=MVI_0310.mp4[/QUOTE]


We're you tempted to burn that big brush pile?

 

[СlaracСaighead]

Is it cheaper to rekey or replace locks?

 

[PropPresPro]

After the initial purchase price of a re-pinning kit, re-pinning a lock only costs pennies in material, but it takes more time to complete then simply changing out locks. Changing locks can cost as little as ~$5 per lock if you're buying them in bulk. I personally prefer spending the little bit of extra $$, getting the job done quicker, and moving on to the next one.