Is a safe with a slightly wobbly dial a problem?

[CuZnPb11]

Hi all.

Today I received an "almost new" Amsec MS1414 from an EBAY seller. Unfortunately, the dial rotates like a slow, slightly wobbly wheel with around a 2 mm variance. Because the packaging was cardboard with an incomplete layer of 1 inch styrofoam, it's possible this occurred in transit.

I have no problem opening the safe, but I can feel slight resistance at certain points while turning.

A safe tech at a local reputable Amsec dealer told me that its possible that the integrity of the lock may have been compromised. He also told me that he could probably replace the lock with a used S&G for a very reasonable cost.

Should I:

1. Receive a reimbusement to replace the "almost new" Amsec lock with a used S & G lock, based on the safe tech's recommendation. Incidentally, getting a new lock would not be cost effective, based on the price I paid for the safe. However, I'm wondering if used locks due to their mechanical nature can be just as reliable as new ones.

2. Return the safe to the seller.

3. Get another opinion to see if the lock can be fixed or to determine that its only a cosmetic issue.

Thank you!

 

[a1abdj]

It is very likely an issue caused by shipping. An off center dial is usually the result of it being hit. Sometimes this just pushes everything off center and makes it look canted, and other times is bends the spindle or begins to pull the dial from the spindle which gives you the "clown" car effect.

You shouldn't need the lock replaced. At most, you should need a new dial, possibly a ring, and possibly a lock cover.

It is important to inspect the lock. If the dial was hit, it could have pushed against the back of the lock. The back of the lock is designed to fracture and fall off, which can cause the relocker to fire. Just because it is opening now, doesn't mean that a serious problem isn't lurking right around the corner. I would unlock it, keep it unlocked, and have it checked out before using it.

 

[CuZnPb11]

Thank you so much for your feedback. Now that I think about it, the dial moves like a "clown car" wheel. Now I'm no expert with mechanical locks but I can see that the centerpoint of the dial is fixed along the axis of the spindle. This might suggest that it's a misaligned dial and not a bent spindle. If the latter were the case, I would suspect that the centerpoint of the dial would wobble as the spindle moves.

Neverthless, I will get it diagnosed.

My only concern now is that the safe tech I spoke to suggested that I replace the lock sight unseen. Would you happen to know any safe techs in the Orlando area who would look at the safe before making a recommendation?

Thanks again.

 

[a1abdj]

Just Safes - 407-281-8018

 

[Reloadron]

I vote for #3. I would have the safe looked at by a reputable competent locksmith who is well versed in tumblers of the type you have.

While it obviously currently works that isn't to say it will continue to work in the future.

Just My Take....
Ron

 

[Highcaliber]

You could just replace it yourself. It's not difficult. A brand new S&G mechanical dial lock is approx $100. Takes about 30 minutes.

 

[CuZnPb11]

Frank,

Great recommendation regarding Just Safes in Orlando. Before bringing my safe in, I stopped by to hear what might be said. Alberto, the owner, brought out a mechanical lock to show me the possible causes behind the wobbling. He then spent an hour with me talking shop and showing his primary business, which is refurbishing and selling used safes, as well as sharing and explaining his credentials (CJS, CPS and placing in the top 5 of several industry sponsored "dial manipulation" competitions) and how he ended up where he is. It was a fascinating visit.

The safes were awesome: Steel plate and composite TL-15s, TL-30s, TL-30X6s, and European certifications equal to and above that. There was even an older HUGE AMSEC BF.

I will definitely be stopping by tomorrow with my safe.

I posted a few pics below.

Thanks again!