Any suggestions for how to unlock and open a door with this type of lock? A video on YouTube showed me how to remove the knobs since the push button lock would not release. I have tried using scissors to turn the latch, as well as a hanger to see if it could be jimmied, and small screwdrivers to see if the lock itself could be released. No luck. It does not pull left toward the hinges and only pushes a half centimeter toward the door jam.
Doors – Unlock door with no knob
doorsinteriorlock
Related Solutions
It sounds to me like something in the knob has worn out (eg, a metal locking mechanism has broken off or been worn down). If this is the case, there's not much chance that you'll be able to [easily] fix it.
If it was me, I'd just replace the knob. You may also be able to swap it with another knob in a location where you don't need a working lock.
In its currently disassembled state, there is nothing locking the mechanism. You are correct that the C shaped half-circle shaft is what pulls the latch back when turned.
If you cannot push the latch back with your finger, the anti-jimmy device has had a piece break in it.
I had this happen on a bathroom door latch about two weeks ago, probably made by the same manufacturer as the shape of the lock actuator rod and latch actuator are exactly the same.
If you look at it, the lock actuator rod (the center piece you were turning) has a taper section just where it passes through the latch pull which means that during assembly, you manually push the latch back and it passes straight through.
In order to get clearance so the lock actuator rod will pass through, I pried the folded piece that they pass through till I got clearance so the shafts would pull out. I then squeezed the folded piece back together and pushed the latch out. It didn't even require taking the door off the hinges.
Replace the whole door knob/latch assembly with new and you're back in action.
Related Topic
- Doors – Quiet door latch
- Doors – How to remove the interior side of a Kwikset handle set with “interconnect”
- Doors – How to stop door knob latch from twisting and sticking on strike plate
- Door lock stuck, will NOT retract
- Doors – How to repair a lose door handle
- Doors – Ensure that a closed door is a completely locked door
- Doors – How to repair a French Door latch that’s keeping the door from opening
Best Answer
Unless your house is abnormally well built, a prybar applied at the strike plate will find enough flex in the frame to pop the door open. Otherwise see @mikes answer.