Need help with safe

[Nickotym]

Safe Guys of THR:

I am looking for a little info about a safe I have on hand that I am planning to use for a handgun safe.

I have the door off the safe to make sure my combo works right before putting into use. When I spin the dial to the correct numbers with everything assembled, I can't get it to open. When I take the back plate off the dial mechanism and then spin the dial to the right numbers, it opens without any trouble most of the time. As soon as the back plate goes on, it won't open right. One of my theories is a weak spring that brings the lever down into the wheels.

This is a S&G lock Model M 6730. Everything seems to move freely and there are no burrs on the back plate that would be catching anything. I can try to take some pictures over the weekend.

I would appreciate any help as I hope to start using this as soon as I get the mechanism opening every time. May have to break down and take it to a safe expert if I can find one locally.

 

[a1abdj]

Sounds like something in the lock is worn to the point of binding when enclosed properly within its case.

Do you know anything about the history of this safe? How often was it serviced?

If you don't know, you're probably better off replacing the lock. They are not overly expensive. Replacing the lock will also be cheaper than drilling the safe open if it ever malfunctions once shut.

 

[Nickotym]

Thanks a1, you were one of the guys I was hoping to hear from.

How difficult is it to replace the lock, can a guy do it on his own? We don't have many safe techs around this area to my knowledge. Also how expensive would the lock be?

This safe was used in my church back at least as far as the 50's so it has seen some use. Not sure how often they opened it. Probably was never serviced. I can't see any signs of obvious wear inside the lockwork, but there may be some subtle signs a safe man might see.

 

[only1asterisk]

I thought you were looking for help moving one...

I wasn't going to volunteer!

David

 

[Nickotym]

1*, here i was hoping to get some help with moving it soon too. It's not too bad to move, It is probably about 2x2x3'. It is still heavy enough for two or three people.

 

[only1asterisk]

Just joking. I have one about that size that I've moved a few times. It really is a two man job.

David