Replacement for tool storage locks (also electronic?)

[Tobias Claren]

Hello.

I can not find my Keys for a Proto Tools tool storage.
Before I would drill out the old lock, this questions.

The roller cabinet has a usual key. Similar to Mail box keys.
The chest box has a key like the old personal computer keys, but bigger.

Is this both generally this type of lock:
http://img.ebaypic100.com/w8/x1/p21/by60_1.jpg

If so, there are differences in safety between the lock from China for $ 1, x and more expensive locks?

Is the round key more unsafe than the conventional simple "mail box" key? I heard you can open it with a piece of cardboard.
Or ius this type of lock safer than the simple "mail box" key?

Do you have tips for cheap but reliable suitable locks?
The cheapest simple/usual "mail box" lock with two keys and removable bar (square hole) costs $2,32 (incl. shipping) from Hong Kong.


And exists perhaps version without a key? Electronic. Then I can not lose a key (or i can programming a new key) .



Thanks,
Tobias Claren

[cledry]

The locks are often not those universal locks but proprietary locks. If the lock has a number on it I would call a locksmith and see if they can cut a code key for you.

[Tobias Claren]

Here photos from the locks:
http://i.imgur.com/LMlYCzP.jpg
Of course, this is not the lost key , this is a key, I can plug in. The same type.
Only for visualation.


Only one has a number.
Could I find or receive a graphic in original size (print and glue it on a blank key) to rasp diy a replace key?
But I would need nevertheless a key for the chest box.
If I have to buy a lock anyway, I might as well buy two identical.
One key for both.

If I could use this standard locks, I must only keen an eye of the cylinder depth? Before drilling out, I do not know the depth and diameter.

[Squelchtone]

I recommend a Medeco cam lock, just make sure the cam in the back is the same size as your old lock.

Is that roller cabinet a Snap-On auto mechanic tool box?

[Tobias Claren]

This is a Proto Tools:
http://www.protoindustrial.com/en/indus ... l-Storage/

The same depth? Also first drilling out, then buying a new one?


Is "Medeco" a special or more safe lock?
It seems Medeco can only buyed in USA.
Or with shipping costs in the same high as the lock. And the risk of a import tax at the customs authorities.

And there are no suitable electronic locks?

[somenewguy]

Many of these types of tool boxes use a standard 'cam' lock.

Cam locks are somewhat standardized, but you have to check several parameters to ensure the replacement lock will work in your application; the diameter, the length of the threaded portion, the size and shape of the 'tailpiece', the rotation (some can be adjusted to rotate 90, 180, or 360 degrees), etc.

Here's a view of the Medeco cam lock: http://www.medeco.com/en/site/medeco/Products/?groupId=915482

There are not a lot of electrical cam locks, here's one but it probably won't fit your application:

http://www.rockler.com/combi-cam-e-electronic-cam-lock

[Raymond]

There are several "electronic" cam locks available these days. I do not remember the sub-brand name but CompX does have one. It has an electronic keypad with a thumb turn. When the correct numbers have been entered you then turn the thumbturn which moves the cam behind it.

There are also electronic cabinet and drawer locks that are operated with a remote control. I have also seen locker type locks with a keypad but I dont remember the name.

Anyway, they are available. Contact a full service locksmith close to you and see what they can find.

[cledry]

There are several "electronic" cam locks available these days. I do not remember the sub-brand name but CompX does have one. It has an electronic keypad with a thumb turn. When the correct numbers have been entered you then turn the thumbturn which moves the cam behind it.

There are also electronic cabinet and drawer locks that are operated with a remote control. I have also seen locker type locks with a keypad but I dont remember the name.

Anyway, they are available. Contact a full service locksmith close to you and see what they can find.

I think the OP doesn't want to spend much on locks by the sound of his original post.

[billdeserthills]

There are several "electronic" cam locks available these days. I do not remember the sub-brand name but CompX does have one. It has an electronic keypad with a thumb turn. When the correct numbers have been entered you then turn the thumbturn which moves the cam behind it.

There are also electronic cabinet and drawer locks that are operated with a remote control. I have also seen locker type locks with a keypad but I dont remember the name.

Anyway, they are available. Contact a full service locksmith close to you and see what they can find.

Thing I read about the Comp X electronic lock is it has a stupid design. The batteries are inside the cabinet, so when they do go dead you hafta actually break the latch to get in.
I prefer to use a combi cam lock for clients who don't want to use a key, there is now a 4 wheel version available which has plenty of possibilities to keep it secure