by datagram » 20 Nov 2008 0:16
What type of lock is it? Usually the best way to do it is to use a working key to rotate the plug then remove the retaining pin/screw and slide the plug out while having a plug follower inserted to hold the spings and top pins up. On cylinders where you can easily remove whatever is above the springs (for example, Kwikset uses an easy to remove snap off top, Medeco and others use allen wrench screws, and others just a small metal retaining strip held in by either a dimple or hammered in by the factory) that is a better method that doesn't require a working key.
There are of course many other ways, such as shimming and picking and so on, but more info on what you're trying to disassemble would be helpful.
dg
