Removing Broken Keys

[randmguy]

Mail boxes are private property. You don't call the USPS and have them install a new box when you build a new house. The laws regarding mail box vandalism are based (I Believe) on interfering with the delivery of mail.

And now for something completely different...BrokenKey call whoever manages your apt and just tell them that the lock is broken. Then the maintenance person can swap out the lock when the postal carrier arrives.

[funboy79015]

BrokenKey, what it comes down to is that the lock does not belong to you. Therefore you should call whoever is in charge of maintaining the lock and have them fix it.

As far as my previous statement that mailboxes are federal property.
This article from the USPS website seems to verify my claims.

http://www.usps.com/websites/depart/inspect/smashbox.htm

[Theros]

Not that im busting for an argument, but does fixing the lock not come under:

Keep your mailbox in good repair...

also the actual law doesnt state that the mailbox is owned by the government or USPS, it just states its a federal law to deface or steal or vandalize a mailbox, whomevers it is...

Sec. 1705. - Destruction of letter boxes or mail

Whoever willfully or maliciously injures, tears down or destroys any letter box or other receptacle intended or used for the receipt or delivery of mail on any mail route, or breaks open the same or willfully or maliciously injures, defaces or destroys any mail deposited therein, shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than three years

[funboy79015]

I refer to the first five words of the second paragraph in my previously posted article.

[HeadHunterCEO]

BrokenKey, what it comes down to is that the lock does not belong to you. Therefore you should call whoever is in charge of maintaining the lock and have them fix it.

As far as my previous statement that mailboxes are federal property.
This article from the USPS website seems to verify my claims.

http://www.usps.com/websites/depart/inspect/smashbox.htm

actually they are treated as federal property in cases of theft or criminal vandalism as stated in the article you posted

[Varjeal]

Go ahead and try the paperclip trick mentioned previously. Just make sure that the tip on the end is not too long or you may have difficulties inserting it.

Make sure the tip is placed on the side of the lock where the cuts on the key are. You may want to have a second one with just a straight tip handy. Use it to lift the front pin or wafer out of the way for your paperclip. Depending on "jammed" the key is though, a paperclip may not be strong enough to do the job. If you have time and the tools, take a hacksaw blade and grind it down into the shape of the extractor pictured above. You will most likely need to thin down the sides quite a bit as well to make it work.

In regards to material, what you really need to have is something thin that flexes only in two directions and not all over the place like a paperclip would. If that doesn't work, I'd highly suggest calling a locksmith. Considering you've been having problems for quite awhile, it's likely the lock may need to be replaced.

You could also talk to your building owner and request a replacement lock, (explain the situation to him) with new keys. Depending on how long you've been there, it's probably a good idea to have the lock to your mailbox changed anyways.

[e-potis]

Ok here's my humble opinion.

I think that neither the paperclip from the back nor the paperclip key extractor senarios will work for the simple reason that the key is stuck.

The key broke while pulling not turning so there must be but cut (to steep slopes) or the lock must be mulfunctioning (bad pins, rust maybe).

I would (too) suggest drilling and replacing given the fact that you'll have to replace the lock eitherwayz.

good luck

[Mad Mick]

I'll jump on the bandwagon and agree with e-potis on this one. Inserting the key wasn't reported to be difficult, removing the key was. Dirt/corrosion/faulty lock seems to be the inhibiting factor here and using improvised tools is unlikely to get the key out if the bow was snapped off during the removal process.

Either contact the building manager regarding replacement, or if the lock is the responsibility of the tenant, drill the lock.

[Ice]

Though I've never had the misfortune of having a key break while in the lock, I've had other problems with things breaking in various holes/slots (such as various audio cables). If you can find a mini screwdriver or something that will go into the keyway, try some tape... I've had pretty good success with getting stuck pieces of metal/etc out of small spaces. It takes patience, but I've been able to clear most things out with tape (believe it or not). The other things you can try are glue (NOT recommended, but if you're desperate...) or pliers (which probably won't work for you in this case). It sounds like the part of the key is more stuck than is retrievable, but here are my 2 cents anyway.

[David_Parker]

Try going backwards with pick grinding. Got a hacksaw? Grind teeth-free area first. Use the thin small, jagged teeth to grab the wards of the key itself. Long time to make I know. Even a good pair of needle nose tweezers from your local grocer. Thats my experience.I've also heard of an epoxy methad and a match-stick. Not too hard to do.


-Dave.

[HeadHunterCEO]

epoxy methad and a match-stick. Not too hard to do.


-Dave.

i like that idea