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How to Fix a Sticking Deadbolt

Introduction

A sticking deadbolt is a common nuisance for homeowners. It can be caused by debris, weather, and general wear and tear. This guide will instruct users how to repair a sticking deadbolt. Fortunately, this is an intermediate fix and the estimated time to complete this repair is thirty to forty-five minutes.

What you need

  1. How to Fix a Sticking Deadbolt, How to Fix a Sticking Deadbolt: step 1, image 1 of 2 How to Fix a Sticking Deadbolt, How to Fix a Sticking Deadbolt: step 1, image 2 of 2

    • Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove both of the ¾-inch screws from the strike plate.

    Edit

  2. How to Fix a Sticking Deadbolt: step 2, image 1 of 2 How to Fix a Sticking Deadbolt: step 2, image 2 of 2

    • Remove both of the 2.5 inch mounting screws from the lock cylinder.

    Edit

  3. How to Fix a Sticking Deadbolt: step 3, image 1 of 1

    • After all four screws have been taken out, slide the latch of the deadbolt out of the door frame.

    Edit

  4. How to Fix a Sticking Deadbolt: step 4, image 1 of 2 How to Fix a Sticking Deadbolt: step 4, image 2 of 2

    • Spray GumOut parts cleaner at an angle into the latch of the deadbolt.

    • Use a rag to clean and dry off latch.

    • We suggest using GumOut cleaning solutions, which is available at most home improvement stores.

    Edit

  6. How to Fix a Sticking Deadbolt: step 5, image 1 of 1

    • Spray GumOut parts cleaner into the key cylinder to lubricate chamber.

    Edit

  7. How to Fix a Sticking Deadbolt: step 6, image 1 of 2 How to Fix a Sticking Deadbolt: step 6, image 2 of 2

    • Insert dry powdered graphite into the key cylinder of the deadbolt.

    • Place the key into the cylinder to lubricate and clean the chamber.

    • If it is difficult to turn the key, then apply more dry powdered graphite into the cylinder.

    Edit

  8. How to Fix a Sticking Deadbolt: step 7, image 1 of 2 How to Fix a Sticking Deadbolt: step 7, image 2 of 2

    • Apply the dry powdered graphite to the latch of the deadbolt.

    • Use a rag to remove excess dry powdered graphite from the latch.

    Edit

  9. How to Fix a Sticking Deadbolt: step 8, image 1 of 1

    • Slide the latch of the deadbolt back into the door frame.

    Edit

  10. How to Fix a Sticking Deadbolt: step 9, image 1 of 3 How to Fix a Sticking Deadbolt: step 9, image 2 of 3 How to Fix a Sticking Deadbolt: step 9, image 3 of 3

    • Take the lock cylinder and the 2.5 inch mounting screws and insert them through the latch of the deadbolt.

    • Then mount the key cylinder on the screws.

    • Use a Phillips screwdriver to tighten the 2.5 inch mounting screws and secure the deadbolt to the frame.

    • The cylinder should be mounted on the outside of the doorframe.

    Edit

  11. How to Fix a Sticking Deadbolt: step 10, image 1 of 1

    • Use a Phillips screwdriver to screw in both of the ¾-inch screws back into the strike plate.

    Edit
Conclusion

After following this fast fix guide, the sticking deadbolt should be fixed.

6 other people completed this guide.

Author

with 3 other contributors

Elizabeth Nesler

Member since: 02/23/16

220 Reputation

1 Guide authored

Badges: 8

+5 more badges

Team

Texas Tech, Team 22-5, Rauch Spring 2016 Member of Texas Tech, Team 22-5, Rauch Spring 2016

TTU-RAUCH-S16S22G5

3 Members

1 Guide authored

2 Guide Comments

GumOut Cleaner seems to be initially intended for Brakes and other auto parts. Is that the product you intend?

dan - Reply

Thank you! GumOut worked well. (I was amused to realize I already had it in my shed for cleaning my lawn mowers carburetor.) In my situation the deadbolt wouldn't fully retract with the key any more, but I could push it the rest of the way with my finger. After removing the latch in step 3, I could turn the latch with a flat head screwdriver and find the place where it "sticks." After cleaning the latch out with a few sprays of GumOut and exercising it with a flat head screwdriver, the latch was working smoothly again. Thank you for the helpful guide!

Russ Williston - Reply

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