Reverse tension

[vector40]

Just had a thought.

We often bounce tension, or at the very least, like to release it now and then to "reset" the pins. However, I'm sure we've all picked locks -- sometimes more common than not -- where simply releasing your wrench will not let the pins drop. The plug sticks enough that you have to actually go to the trouble of manually turning it BACK the other way, sometimes even repositioning your tension wrench! And trying to bounce tension for a pick gun or the like is nearly impossible in these situations.

How can we answer this? Two possibilities come to mind. One is a tensor whose head is shaped in such a way that it ensures a solid grip in BOTH directions. Ordinarily we just jam 'em in however they fit, so long as it finds a solid stop in the direction we're turning. But if it was sure to "lock" both ways, we'd have a very good line on whatever tension we cared to apply.

The other is some kind of device you'd stick in at the opposite end as your wrench (pin side if you're tensoring from the bottom, US orientation) that actually gives a reverse tension. Imagine a little L-hook that you stick into the top of the keyway, with a short, elastic rubber line coming off, and something like a pin or a magnet at the other end. You affix it to the door, stick the end into the lock, and it tugs the plug the opposite way you're tensioning. So if you release tension, it pulls back to zero instantly.

The design could obviously be improved, but what do you think?

[Shrub]

A tapered wrench helps a lot.

[pinsetter]

The problem is normally that the tension wrench is binding under the bottom ward and it is causing the tension wrench to bind where the plug and cylinder meet, right at the very front of the cylinder at the keyway opening. I tapered a wrench as Shrub suggested and it does work a lot smoother. I had a similar solution to the problem that works pretty well too. I ground just a little off of the blade of the tension wrench right before the bend where it turns into the handle. Right where the tension wrench exits the keyway when fully inserted is where I took off just a little bit of metal. The rest of the blade I left at full width. This pretty well eliminated the binding for me.

Also by using the wire idea from the thread link below, the tension wrench is held more squarely in the keyway, reducing binding and being much easier on the keyway.

viewtopic.php?t=12768

[Bahrg]

I use windshield wiper inserts for wrenches, but i made some of them with the end folded over so it was twice as thick. I then sanded it down to fit perfectly into the keyway giving me more control over the wrench.

[SteveW]

Hi guys check these out



These are ajustable tension wrenches from the Falle pick set. The two prongs allow you to grip both the top and bottom of the keyway, and make it simple to reset the pins. They are completly rigid which takes a bit of getting used to but the feedback is superb. These are the only tension wrenches that i use now.

[vector40]

Yes, something just like that would be nice, but a good double-pronged wrench is not easy to come by.

[tweed]

how important do you guys figure a tight fitting wrench is? does is just come down to personal taste? or is it just more practical to have a wrench that has a snug fit in the keyway?

[vector40]

Hm... I can't imagine anyone would prefer a loose fit.

[SteveW]

It always has to be a tight fit for me, if the wrench is loose then there is more chance of it slipping and it also reduces the feedback

[Gear Head]

I've never really had a problem with worrying about moving the wrench back up Granted there is only about 3lbs of force on the wrench but just barley letting up will drop the pins, and if they don't the wrench stays in place and you can slowly raise it. I don't see a double prong or atleast of that style being as ridgid and as useful as a signle tensioner grabbing 2 sides of the lock already. Whatever works for you guys though.

[Gear Head]

Like Shrub said, a tapering wrench helps, have 2 ends different sizes and tapered down, and although it may not be the right wrench for the job you can get one of those to get a good fit in almost any case

[devildog]

I was just going to say, ya know--these falle-safe tension wrenches do usually fit quite snugly

Although I've got a Sargent with an LA keyway right now that just won't agree with anything I've got--anyone picked a lot of Sargents? They're kinda a PITA...