Welch mortise lock

[Slowpick]

The front door of my 1936 bungalow has a mortise lock with a pin tumbler cylinder stamped WELCH. The keys are very worn, as you’d expect, and it’s only a 5 pin lock. Before I pull this apart, does anyone have experince with these? I’d like to replace the cylinder with something newer and hopefully better without replacing the entire lock.

[stratmando]

Does the Key work? If it hangs a little and worn, may be able to get a Locksmith, or someone capable of duplicating the key to cut so the new key has slightly higher cuts, Then may be able to file on the key at the spaces shown by marks like Impressioning. If key works or lock can be picked or pins shimmed, you could insert new pins to match the key or other precut key?

[Slowpick]

Key works fine. I’m concerned about the continuing reliability of an 82 year old lock as well as improving the security of the cylinder.

[jimu57]

I have an old Welch mortise cylinder. Took it out of an old house and installed a Schlage.

[stratmando]

Key works fine. I’m concerned about the continuing reliability of an 82 year old lock as well as improving the security of the cylinder.

That 82 year old lock may outlast a Modern Lock? Changing probably not a bad idea as the Number of extra Keys used in the last 82 years could be several. Renters, Old Girlfriends, Exwives, Kids.

[billdeserthills]

Only bad thing about your Welch mortise lock is the deadbolt latch is only 1/2" long
Since the 1970's mortise deadbolt latches have been lengthened to 1"
The mortise cylinder can be easily removed and replaced, but I don't really see any reason to replace anything that is working as it should
Most criminals nowadays seem to just toss a rock through your window to gain entry anyway

[Slowpick]

I have an old Welch mortise cylinder. Took it out of an old house and installed a Schlage.

That’s precisely what I need to know, thanks.

[Slowpick]

Key works fine. I’m concerned about the continuing reliability of an 82 year old lock as well as improving the security of the cylinder.

That 82 year old lock may outlast a Modern Lock? Changing probably not a bad idea as the Number of extra Keys used in the last 82 years could be several. Renters, Old Girlfriends, Exwives, Kids.

I’ve owned it for 31 years I’m only the fourth owner, and the first two are both long gone.

[stratmando]

If you have the desire for a little experience, you could get spool or other Security Pins and Upgrade your current Lock. Just an Idea. If Going to a Schlage as mentioned, someone here could help you figure which Cylinder to get.