Raymond
You might need to change the locks on your RV at some point. Whether you’re changing locks because you bought an RV used or need to add another family member to the list of people with access to your RV, learning how to rekey RV locks will make the process go much more smoothly. Fortunately, learning how to rekey rv locks isn’t as tricky as it sounds – with the right tools and instruction, you can learn how to rekey rv locks in no time!
Table of Contents
How to Rekey RV Locks
Before starting
First, consult with a locksmith about getting duplicate keys made. You may need special code keys for your lock or other equipment to rekey your RV’s locks. Once you have everything in order, it’s time to rekeying your RV lock. Get all of your tools and supplies ready before starting, as there is no room for error when dealing with cylinders and pins inside an RV keyhole.
Tools needed
hammer, flat-head screwdriver, pliers, and picks. A rekeying kit is sold at many hardware stores. You’ll find a vast selection online (just Google RV lock rekeying kit). It includes a handle that holds all of your keys while you remove them from one side and move them to another. You’ll also need a key blanks kit for each lock you want to rekey.
Step 1 – Unlock the door manually.
Using a screwdriver, unlock your trailer door. The location of your lock varies depending on what brand you have and whether or not you have one on each side of door. In most cases, it will be somewhere along with the door’s exterior handle—try looking for a rectangular hole or slot with grooves. If that doesn’t work, consult with a locksmith before proceeding. (It’s probably easier than you think!)
Step 2 – Remove the door from its hinges.
This step is a bit more complicated if you don’t know what you’re doing, but it doesn’t take much effort. You can either take off all of the door’s interior pieces or if there are any obstructions on your door (like an attached screen), leave them in place and move on to Step 3. Loosen or remove exterior screws from hinges using a screwdriver, pliers or adjustable wrench.
Step 3 – Remove the cylinder from the deadbolt.
A screw or two usually holds a cylinder in place on older locks. Remove these screws and gently pull out your cylinder. If you don’t have screws, you’ll probably need to pry it out with a flat-head screwdriver or another levering tool. There will be an alignment key in place on some new locks, and on others, a retaining clip that needs removal first. Once you get your cylinder out, set it aside. You won’t need it for a while.
Step 4 – Unscrew the cylinder housing.
After removing your old lock, unscrew and remove the cylinder housing from your door. This can be done using a screwdriver or by prying it off with a chisel. After you do so, clean out any remaining debris around and inside it with a rag or vacuum. When you are finished cleaning out your cylinder housing, screw in a new one!
Step 5 – Use a new cylinder and key.
After you have removed your old cylinder, it is time to put in your new one. If you are installing a brand new lock, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation. Your new lock should come with all of its components, including cylinders, wires, and keys. These key codes can vary by company, so always ensure that you get your locksmith’s replacement keys.
Step 6 – Put it all back together again.
With all of your locks rekeyed and replaced, it’s time to re-install them. Reinstallation is a pretty straightforward process: just reverse the order you removed everything. First, put all your new keys back on your keyring and attach them (in their proper order) to your keychain or onto whatever other device you use for storing keys. Then, reattach any deadbolts by carefully sliding them into place from underneath each door.
Conclusion
Keeping your recreational vehicle safe is a big concern. Fortunately, rekeying can be done by anyone. After completing these steps, you’ll have an entirely new set of keys that no one else has access to. No more worrying about people breaking into your RV!
