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Can I put a new Keyway in an existing Mailbox lock?

Information about locks themselves. Questions, tips and lock diagram information should be posted here.

Re: Can I put a new Keyway in an existing Mailbox lock?

Postby cledry » 21 Apr 2012 11:04

Alfredo12 wrote:Does anyone know what screw size are in these USPS Po Box mailbox types? Mine is for private use and won't have the USPS keyway of course.

But I don't know what size screws to get.


Just grab a few screws that look close from the hardware store they cost pennies a piece, then save the ones you don't use for a rainy day. As I said, length doesn't matter, they can be shortened. I am thinking it is 8-32 but the new lock will usually come with screws. I just sold 100 similar mailbox locks and it came with a bag of 200 screws.
Jim
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Re: Can I put a new Keyway in an existing Mailbox lock?

Postby Evan » 21 Apr 2012 17:45

Alfredo12 wrote:Does anyone know what screw size are in these USPS Po Box mailbox types? Mine is for private use and won't have the USPS keyway of course.

But I don't know what size screws to get.


@Alfredo12:

At this point given all the questions you have, replacing this lock seems beyond your technical ability... Request that whomever administers these private use mail boxes change or re-key your lock for you...

~~ Evan
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Re: Can I put a new Keyway in an existing Mailbox lock?

Postby Alfredo12 » 21 Apr 2012 18:51

I contacted 4 vendors and each one has given me a different screw size.

Having a licensed and bonded locksmith I guess is the answer.
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Re: Can I put a new Keyway in an existing Mailbox lock?

Postby cledry » 21 Apr 2012 19:16

Alfredo12 wrote:I contacted 4 vendors and each one has given me a different screw size.

Having a licensed and bonded locksmith I guess is the answer.


If you cannot determine a screw size by trying a few different common thread sizes I guess perhaps it is time to call a locksmith. I carry the screws in my truck and could go out and measure one for you, but that might confuse the issue even more.
Jim
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Re: Can I put a new Keyway in an existing Mailbox lock?

Postby cledry » 21 Apr 2012 19:23

Feeling generous tonight.

Just measured a screw, it is 6-32 X 3/8"
Jim
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Re: Can I put a new Keyway in an existing Mailbox lock?

Postby Alfredo12 » 21 Apr 2012 19:45

cledry wrote:Feeling generous tonight.

Just measured a screw, it is 6-32 X 3/8"


You were the one with the USPS mailbox right?

Ill try that one first.
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Re: Can I put a new Keyway in an existing Mailbox lock?

Postby Squelchtone » 21 Apr 2012 21:28

Alfredo12 wrote:
cledry wrote:Feeling generous tonight.

Just measured a screw, it is 6-32 X 3/8"


You were the one with the USPS mailbox right?

Ill try that one first.



We cant help you if you do not trust anyone's answers... this business of having to find a bonded and licenses locksmith, not sure how you got that stuck in your head, not every locksmith will just know some of these questions off the top of their head. Not everyone works with antique post office box doors.

Best Regards,
Squelchtone
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Re: Can I put a new Keyway in an existing Mailbox lock?

Postby cledry » 21 Apr 2012 22:52

Alfredo12 wrote:
cledry wrote:Feeling generous tonight.

Just measured a screw, it is 6-32 X 3/8"


You were the one with the USPS mailbox right?

Ill try that one first.


It is the screw that ships with the lock in the image you posted.
Jim
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