Hey all, my Mom has an old 2 drawer safe/fireproof file cabinet that uses a key that when turned it pops out so you can open the drawers. At some point the key got broken off in the lock, maybe upside down. My brother tried to use picks but no luck. Looking for any ideas before I head up that way in a few weeks on what has worked for others. I will also grab some pictures of the lock and drawer levers if that would help. Thanks in advance and will be taking up my spare key.
That was my first thought, but the closest one is at least an hour away so trying to save that cost. I did use Google after posting this and there are multiple good ideas that I'm going to try including a key extractor kit on Amazon, like in the $20 range so not a budget breaker. We suspect that she somehow jamed the key in upside down or something. I can update everyone once we get the key out.
Steph, I sold those back in the day. All the manufactures are extremely helpful. Extra keys and replacement locks are easy but I bet they will offer you advice if they have some on your broke key. Last resort, note the # on the cylinder and drill it out? Then ask for replacement.
Thank you but I don't think that will be possible as this thing is from the 50's area, but something we will check into. Ordered a key extractor kit and between that and a few hints on YouTube using small drill bits plus dry lubricant that something will work. I say it several times a week that I am the luckiest person alive, even though it may not seem like it sometimes.
A picture of the keyway will be helpful. Does she have more than one key? If not you might need to invest in a jiggler set. These picks open most filing cabinet type locks without needing much skill. Depends on the exact lock/key type. EDIT: Just read your post again and see that you have a spare key, so no jiggler picks required. A picture of the key will be helpful.
Does that key say “HILLMAN”? Perhaps a google search will yield something. The Y6 was likely used on many of their products.
I think Hillman makes generic blank keys, like you get cut at hardware stores and such, rather than being a lock or cabinet brand. They also make other hardware - fasteners, etc. But you never know - maybe they make/made locks as well! I'm interested to see how the key extraction goes. I've never attempted that before. Good luck, Stephiedoll!
