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How to Remove a Schlage Lock Cylinder? – Only Take a Minute

Fact checked by Teddy B.Miller

how to remove a schlage lock cylinder

Do you want to learn how to remove a Schlage lock cylinder? You can remove lock cylinder from door knob by removing the exterior knob from the door. Next, push back the lock cylinder out of the knob.

If you think that this job is only for locksmiths, you are mistaken! Schlage lock cylinder removal won’t take much of your time as long as you have the proper tools. Read our tutorial below to complete this task.

What You Need

Before you can remove a Schlage deadbolt lock cylinder, you need to have the proper items first. You can purchase the items online or at the nearest hardware store if you don’t have them. There are also suggested alternative tools that you can use.

Key

You need the key of your Schlage lock so that you can remove the exterior knob from your door quickly. It is the one included in your lockset. If you have lost your key, you can use a duplicate key if you have one.

If you don’t have any duplicate keys, you can also use a paperclip as an alternative. Make sure, though, that it is sturdy and straightened. Also, you need to prepare a screwdriver if you don’t have your original key to remove the screws on the front side of the lock.

Flat remover tool

If you have a Schlage rekeying kit, find the flat remover tool. You can also purchase a separate flat remover tool online if you don’t have the rekeying kit. This tool is used for pressing the spring-loaded clip to release the external knob.

A small chisel or a flathead screwdriver can also be an alternative if you cannot find a flat remover tool. But ensure that they are thin enough to fit and press the tab on the doorknob.

What to Do

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Step 1: Remove the exterior knob from the door

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Before removing the lock cylinder, you need to take off the exterior knob from the door. To do this, insert the key in the keyhole and give it a quarter turn into the right. Look for the tab on the doorknob. Once you find it, get your flat remover tool, then press it. Now, pull off the exterior knob from the door.

Step 2: Push back the cylinder from the knob

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Turn the key counterclockwise after removing the knob, then remove the key from the knob. Use your flat tool to press down on the cylinder’s compressible part. Then, slide the cylinder out.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I remove a Schlage lock cylinder without a key?

To remove the Schlage lock cylinder without the key, follow these steps:

  • Step 1: Remove the escutcheon plates by using a screwdriver
  • Step 2: Remove the screws that hold the lock
  • Step 3: Insert the straightened paper clip into the lock and turn it to a 12 o’clock position
  • Step 4: Take the lock cylinder out

How much will it cost me to have a Schlage cylinder replacement?

For rekeying, it will cost you about $20 to $50 per hour for a locksmith to execute a Schlage cylinder replacement.

Conclusion

Is learning how to remove a Schlage lock cylinder useful? You don’t need to pay for professional help when rekeying or changing Schlage lock cylinder. By preparing the required tools and following the steps correctly, you can easily remove this lock component.

Do you know some friends and family members who need to learn this tutorial? We encourage you to share this post with them! Indeed, they will appreciate your help. Also, we would love to hear your opinion on the tutorial. What was the part that you found the most challenging? Leave a comment below.

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