The deadbolt next door wasn't working: the key turned but not enough to retract the bolt. Took it apart, was able to retract it using a slotted screwdriver that fit the mechanism. However, the key no longer turned either the inside nor the outside cylinders! Which had both worked moments before! I don't have proper locksmithing tools here, particularly the cylindrical-shaped plug that holds the pins and springs in place when the plug is removed from the housing.
So I took out the cylinders, and the owner took them to the locksmith across the street. I don't know what he did, but she brought them back in working order, and it only cost 120 pesos, about $6 US! Put it all back together, and it works like a charm.
last updated 2024-03-26 10:07:50. served from tektonic.jcomeau.com