FB Key Machine

[Eyes_Only]

Is it just me or is the Foley-Belsaw key machine kind of a cheap key cutter? Maybe the reason I have problems with it is because I didn't adjust it right but I often have trouble getting accurate keys made when using this machine.

For example, if I adjust it perfectly for cutting a Schalge correctly I end up not being able to cut a Kwikset key very accurately and vise versa. I mean it'll work but the key has the tendancy to stick a bit and I would have to find a good medium between different types of lock and key make so I can at least have the machine set so the key will work for the most part.

Anyone else here who have taken the FB course or had the experience of working with the Model 200 had a similar experience?

[freakparade3]

I have not had any problems with it. Once you set it up properly with the keys they send you it should not need to be adjusted to cut Schlage of Kwikset. What I did have a problem with is that the directions they send to set it up are not exactly easy to follow.

[Eyes_Only]

Well I just cut a couple keys for two of my Schalge mortise cylinders that I re-pinned to factory cut keys a few weeks back and the keys I copied works fine. No binding or catching. Strange. Cut a Kwikset key too and that also works fine. Maybe theres something wrong with the lock on my front door. I'm gonna check it out, I have hour before I have to go to work anyways.

[Eyes_Only]

Well I took my front door deadbolt apart and what I realized was that I may have re-pinned this lock a couple years ago using those cheap change-a-lock kits from Home Depot. I stuck in the original key and the copies I was positive came out ok and the bottom pins didn't come up to the shearline far enough causing it to bind because the top drivers weren't completely past shearline. I emptied the plug and re-pinned it once again with my LAB pinning kit. Now the locks work much much better and way smoother than it did before with the keys I copied. I don't think I'll be using those cheapie kits from hardware stores ever again.