by NKT » 17 Apr 2005 8:26
I've seen a few different types of these. Some, you can simply use a screwdriver to get the paint out of the screw heads, and unscrew it!
Others have what is essentially a gated lever lock that can be flipped with a screwdriver. Really lousy, but far older than '60's, I think.
The other way, if the glass has been puttied in then painted, is to remove the glass carefully by digging the putty out. Takes ten minutes, then you can turn the knob on the inside (on some designs) or perhaps the key if it is there.
If the key isn't there, ask where it is - they are often hung on the wall next to the door, and so you can simply remove one of those panes instead, & reach in. Putty the glass back in afterwards.
You can then sell the client a new door lock, or at the very least, tell him he really should get into the habit of putting the key out of reach/view.
But if you are looking for some clever type specific, I've seen a few with the lock keying code stamped under the plug, you just have to scrap off the paint. I wouldn't know without looking, though.
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