Changing the combination on a cam lock is a valuable skill that grants you control over access and security. Cam locks are commonly used in various applications, from cabinets to mailboxes, offering a convenient locking solution. Learning how to change the combination on a cam lock allows you to customize and update access codes as needed, ensuring the safety of your belongings.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the step-by-step process of how to change combination on a cam lock, shedding light on the mechanisms and techniques involved. From understanding the components of the lock to implementing the new code, we’ll provide comprehensive instructions to help you confidently modify the combination.
Whether you’re a business owner, a homeowner, or someone responsible for safeguarding valuable items, join us as we navigate the world of cam lock combination changes, offering insights that empower you to enhance security with ease.
What Are Cam Locks and Their Uses?
Cam locks are used across the world for various types of locking applications, ranging from home and commercial use to internal lockers in industrial settings. A cam lock is a type of detachable lock that uses a key or combination to unlock it.
It has an attached cylinder-shaped “cam”, which is inserted into the body of the lock when it is opened. Cam locks are available in a variety of sizes and styles to meet any security needs you may have, from low to high security. These locks provide an easy-to-use, secure solution for locking doors and applications with quick access.
Why Is My Combination Lock Not Opening?
If your combination lock isn’t opening, it could be due to a few different reasons. Firstly, you may have entered the wrong combination or forgotten what the correct combination is. Secondly, if your lock has been exposed to moisture or dirt, this could interfere with its mechanics and prevent it from unlocking. Finally, if the dials on your lock have become stuck, this could prevent the lock from unlocking.
It is possible to replace or reset a combination lock if it isn’t opening due to any of the above reasons. Depending on the type of lock, you may need certain tools such as a screwdriver or pliers. However, if your lock is resetable, you may not need any tools at all.
10 Methods on How to Change Combination on a Cam Lock
1. Gather the Necessary Tools
The first step in changing the combination on a cam lock is to gather the necessary tools. This will typically include a screwdriver, a set of pliers, and a paperclip or other thin metal object. Once you have all of your tools ready, you can begin the process of changing the combination.
2. Remove the Cam Lock Screws
The next step is to remove the cam lock screws that are located on either side of the lock. You will need to use your screwdriver to unscrew these screws until they are completely removed from the lock. Once this is done, you can then remove the back cover of the lock.
3. Locate and Disengage Combination Pins
Once you have removed the back cover of the lock, you should be able to locate and disengage the combination pins inside of it. These pins are responsible for setting and maintaining your chosen combination for your cam lock.
To disengage them, use your pliers to carefully pull them out one at a time until they are all disengaged from their respective positions inside of the lock’s interior mechanism.
4. Set Your New Combination
Now that you have disengaged all of your combination pins, you can now set your new combination for your cam lock by pushing each pin into its designated position in accordance with your desired combination code. Make sure to double-check that each pin is correctly placed before moving on to step 5!
5. Re-Engage Combination Pins
Once you have set your new combination code, you must now re-engage each pin so that it stays in place when you close up and secure your cam lock again. To do this, use either your pliers or a small flathead screwdriver to push each pin into its designated position until it clicks into place securely within its slot inside of the lock’s interior mechanism.
6. Insert Paperclip into Hole
After all of your pins are securely re-engaged within their slots, insert a paperclip or other thin metal object into one of two small holes located on either side of where all of those pins were located earlier on in this process (this hole should be visible once all pins are re-engaged). This will help ensure that no one else can access or change your newly set combination code without first removing this paperclip from its slot inside of the lock’s interior mechanism!
7. Replace Back Cover
Once everything has been properly secured within its slot inside of the lock’s interior mechanism, replace back cover by sliding it back over top and lining up any remaining screws with their respective holes before tightening them down securely with a screwdriver (be careful not to overtighten!).
8. Test Your New Combination Code
Now that everything has been properly secured within its slot inside of the lock’s interior mechanism and the back cover has been replaced over top, test out the new combination code by turning the dial clockwise until it stops at each number in the sequence (make sure not to skip any numbers!) If successful, the handle should click open after the last number is reached!
9. Secure Lock with Screws
If successful in opening the handle after entering the new combination code correctly, secure the cam lock with screws by inserting them through respective holes on either side before tightening them down securely with a screwdriver (again being careful not to overtighten!).
10. Enjoy Your Newly Changed Combination Code!
And there you have it – congratulations! You’ve just successfully changed the combination code on a cam lock – enjoy using the newly changed code whenever needed!
Things to Consider When Changing Combination on a Cam Lock
Changing the combination on a cam lock can be an intimidating task if you don’t have any experience. Understanding how the mechanisms of your particular model work is key to successfully changing the combination without damaging any parts or rendering it useless. Here are some other considerations when resetting your cam lock:
- Make sure that you take note of your existing code, as you won’t be able to revert back to the original combination once it is changed.
- Take your time and make sure that all of the digits line up correctly before attempting to secure the code.
- If possible, use a soft cloth when pushing in the reset buttons or turning dials as this will help reduce any wear and tear on the lock itself.
- Ensure that all of the pins are lined up correctly before locking it back into place.
- After resetting the combination, you should always test it to make sure that the new code works properly.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your cam lock is secure and easy to use after changing its combination. With a little bit of practice and patience, resetting a cam lock should be a simple process.
Some Common Mistakes to Avoid
It’s easy to make a mistake when changing the combination on your cam lock. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Not double checking the new combination after entering it. Make sure you have entered the correct numbers before you close and test the lock.
- Trying to change combinations too often or without taking note of each step in the process. Once you get the hang of it, changing a combination can be done quickly and easily. But if you make a mistake, it’ll take longer to fix it.
- Not following the manufacturer’s instructions when resetting your lock. Each brand of cam locks is different, so make sure you read and follow all steps carefully.
- Entering too many or too few numbers when setting the combination. Each type of cam lock requires a certain number of digits to work, so make sure you enter the correct amount.
- Forgetting to reset the locking mechanism before testing your new combination. The lock won’t open if the locking mechanism isn’t reset, so be sure to do this step!
Conclusion
Changing the combination on a cam lock is not only a great way to keep your belongings secure, but it can also save you time and effort. With just a few simple steps, you can be sure that your belongings are safe and secure thanks to the new combination. As long as you carefully follow these instructions, you will have no trouble changing and securing your combination for your cam lock.
Now that you know how to change the combination on a cam lock, why not put it into practice? You might even consider upgrading all of your existing locks with new combinations for extra security. So don’t wait any longer – start enhancing the security of your possessions today by learning how to change combination on a cam lock!
