Tools and Parts Commonly Found in Lock Rekeying Kits

This is part 2 of the Lock Rekeying Series. In part 1 I discussed your options for Getting Your Locks Rekeyed. I also introduced the subject of lock rekeying kits and discussed three different types: a single use small rekeying kit, a custom rekey kit good for occasional use, and a full size manufacturers Rekeying Kit designed for heavy use. In part 3 I will discuss Rekeying a Schlage Deadbolt Lock.

In this post I will define what some of the common components and tools are in a lock rekeying kit. To start rekeying locks you should at least have:

A follower
A variety of bottom pins
A deadbolt cap remover if you will rekey deadbolts

Addittional tools and components will make things easier and allow you to rekey a greater variety of locks.

Common Tools for Rekeying Locks

Follower – Tool that is slid into the cylinder while pushing the plug out. This tool prevents the top pins and springs from falling out.

Deadbolt Cap Remover – Tool that helps in removing the cylinder cap on deadbolt locks

Key Gauge – allows you to identify the pins by measuring the key, or the pins themselves

Removal Tool – tool that can be useful for disengaging knobs and maneuvering other small parts

Tweezers – useful for handling small pins and springs if you aren’t very nimble with small parts

Common Lock Components in Lock Rekeying Kits

Bottom Pins – Pins of varying lengths with one end coming to a point which engages the key, you will normally be changing these when rekeying locks

Top Pins – Small cylindrical pins which sit between the bottom pins and the springs

Springs – Keeps pressure on the top pins

Cylinder Caps – A screw on cap that locks the cylinder in place on a deadbolt lock

Cylinder Cap Pins – Keeps the cylinder cap in place by engaging the grooves on the cap

Cylinder Cap Pin Springs – Sits beneath the cylinder cap pin and applies pressure to it so that the cylinder cap pin will engage the cylinder cap grooves.

Where You Can Get Lock Rekeying Parts and Tools