Special use tension tools?

[Mr. Swell]

Very recently, on a vacation to California, and staying with my friend, I observed a large steel box that has two separate locks. Both very closely resemble padlocks, however, since I can only view the bottom, that is inconclusive. They are sunk back into the steel at least 2 inches, making it impossible for a normal tension tool to reach. Regrettably I have no pictures, and no way to attempt a picking of this box, but I was wondering: Are there special tension tools for this type of lock? Or is it something that is not common enough to warrant a tool?

[rakemaster]

It sounds like you're talking about those "job boxes" used at construction sites, which have two Master padlocks (with a special removable shackle).

I don't know of any pre-made torque tools designed specifically for that kind of situation, but Peterson sells special bendable steel in various widths and thicknesses, plus a bending tool. If I really wanted to pick a lock that was set back like that, I'd probably make a special single use torque tool out of something like the peterson steel, with an extra long blade.

Usual disclaimers about not opening locks you don't own, but I'm assuming you're just asking how you would approch this rather than actually planning to burglarize a construction site (which you obviously should know better than to do!)

[rakemaster]

It sounds like you're talking about those "job boxes" used at construction sites, which have two Master padlocks (with a special removable shackle).

I don't know of any pre-made torque tools designed specifically for that kind of situation, but Peterson sells special bendable steel in various widths and thicknesses, plus a bending tool. If I really wanted to pick a lock that was set back like that, I'd probably make a special single use torque tool out of something like the peterson steel, with an extra long blade.

Usual disclaimers about not opening locks you don't own, but I'm assuming you're just asking how you would approch this rather than actually planning to burglarize a construction site (which you obviously should know better than to do!)

[illusion]

You could try something similar to the tulip tension tool, but with the 90 degree bend nearer to the tip. I would describe it, but if you go to SouthOrd's website they have photos that will explain it better.

Don't pick locks you rely on, yadee-yadee-yadah...

[raimundo]

You will need to make your own tools for this one, time to hook up with one of the members here who will supply you with sweeper bristle. this is the stuff that you need to make the tools that would apply to that gangbox.

Or you could special order some tools for it from me. They're not made up but I could do them.

[Mr. Swell]

Wow. Thank you for all the information. It was nothing more sinister than noobish curiosity.

On a vaguely unrelated note... wouldnt piano be a reasonable substitute for sweeper bristles?

[freakparade3]

On a vaguely unrelated note... wouldnt piano be a reasonable substitute for sweeper bristles?

I think it would be hard for the man in the tuxedo and top hat to keep singing while attached to a street sweeper.

[mrdan]

On a vaguely unrelated note... wouldnt piano be a reasonable substitute for sweeper bristles?

I think it would be hard for the man in the tuxedo and top hat to keep singing while attached to a street sweeper.

[Mr. Swell]

LOL. Ziiiiinnnnnggggg .

I meant... could one make quality picks using piano wire in hte place of sweeper bristles?

[Picklocking]

I didnt get it ^^

[questions]

yes sir, im in the construction field and those are gang boxes, job boxes whatever you want to call it. All it is is just a normal padlock of any sort that the shackle goes around a loop in the box that keeps the lock in place. I've picked these things just using a simple "L" tension wrench used backwards for the added length, it would benifit to make a custom one. There is no challenge on these boxes, and wont make your skills go up so as easy as they seem find something more challenging thats yours, but if its just curiousity then your question is answered.

[Eyes_Only]

Or you can save yourself the trouble of stalking the street sweeper truck every week or having to order and wait for the Peterson tool to arrive by using a windshield wiper insert instead.

[illusion]

LOL. Ziiiiinnnnnggggg .

I meant... could one make quality picks using piano wire in hte place of sweeper bristles?

You can... In the sense that we're talking about round spring steel known as piano wire, and not the strings found inside a piano...

They tend to have strength issues, but on the other hand they can make some very slim picks...

Hehehe - Man in a tuxedo...

[samfishers]

take your tension and reverse it using the one normally in the lock outside for your fingers

[jimmysmith]

these steel constuction boxes do not use special padlocks with removable shackles. most the time you will find a standord master lock #5 in them. I have picked locks in this same situation. try to use a tulip tension tool.. if that dont work.. bend your standord tension tool to less of an angle and work it like that.
simple fix to this problem.