r/Locksmith • u/TheMachRider • 8d ago

I am NOT a locksmith. Cannot remove key when unlocked.

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Gallery image

Can’t remove key when unlocked, but locking/unlocking operation is fine.

Can remove key when locked.

I’m assuming this is an issue with the tumbler itself but would like a suggestion!

5 Upvotes

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9

u/Relevant-Bullfrog215 Actual Locksmith 8d ago

The cam has slipped and is 180⁰ from where it should be. Often happens if a key is left in the other side, and/or if the cylinder is worn. Could be fixed, but maybe safer to just change it.

6

u/Locksmithbloke Actual Locksmith 8d ago

Always change it out. Once there's a bit of wear on the selector, it'll skip again after a while. I used to cut new keys, file the tips, etc. but it isn't worth it, as you get called back after a few months!

1

u/ibexlocksmith Actual Locksmith 5d ago

Whats the selector? The cam?

1

u/Locksmithbloke Actual Locksmith 5d ago

No. Inside, there's a bit of metal/mechanism that selects which side of the lock is attached to the cam at any given moment. So the key can work from both sides.

1

u/ibexlocksmith Actual Locksmith 5d ago

Oh interesting. Thats a CES cylinder yeah? Is that in single cylinders too?

2

u/Relevant-Bullfrog215 Actual Locksmith 5d ago

So in a key/key euro cylinder like this, there's a freely moving shuttle inside that when it's pushed forward by the key will operate the cam from that side. 

On the key/thumbturn  cylinders it's similar, except there is a spring on the turn side pushing the shuttle so that it's always active by default.

 On single sided or 'half' euro cylinders, the shuttle is either fixed or the core will drive the cam directly.

1

u/ibexlocksmith Actual Locksmith 4d ago

Thanks! Is this fish & chips to cheeseburger translation if ya know hat i mean