Busted lock

beemerphile1 wrote:
Everyone should buy a dental pick for your toolbox. Might have been able to pull the key out with zero damage.

That's what I did after my first experience. I have two in different configurations that stay in the truck console.

NOW'S YOUR CHANCE!!!! Keep the lock, change the trailer.

Everyone should buy a dental pick for your toolbox. Might have been able to pull the key out with zero damage.

Glad you were able to get it opened. Am somewhat surprised that the key fit in upside down...but I have seen that before.

Sounds like a plan. I missed the part about outdoor kitchen in your first post... sorry, I thought it was one of the trailer doors.

well it turns out that she put the key in upside down then broke it off trying to turn it. I was able to get the broken piece out without drilling it but destroyed the lock in the process. Got the lock out but even the local rv dealer doesn't have one long enough to replace it. Grrr. Local locksmith is ordering me one that should fit.

Also consider that the key is most likely the generic one that fits most compartments so getting a replacement key will not be a problem as many will have a key that fits.

Can you insert the broken key into the lock and get it to turn? If so get the lock open and then you can remove the lock and work on it. If you can access the back of the lock from inside the trailer you can take out the screw that holds the door latch shut and get it open.

Bzeitham wrote:
If the key is all the way in the lock cylinder and has lifted the tumblers (pins) you should be able to turn the cylinder with a small screwdriver inserting it into the cylinder and twisting. After unlocking in you might be able to remove the entire lock. Most hardware stores should have a lock that will replace yours. But check to see if you can possibly push the key from the back side of the lock. I own a hardware store and handle the lock rekeying. If you get the old key piece out take it to the hardware store and they should be able to copy the key.
GOOD LUCK!

I agree with the first sentence of this post, or try How to remove a broken key that Pangaea Ron linked too. JMO

I had a problem with a deadbolt lock cylinder on our used (new to us) travel trailer. I took the inside part off, you can access the deadbolt cylinder there to push the key piece back out.