Omar Khalid
Plastic file cabinets are a great way to keep your documents organised and secure. They are often used in homes and offices and can be purchased from many retailers, including Walmart. If you're looking to lock your plastic file cabinet, there are several options available to you. You can choose to install a new lock, replace a missing lock, or simply lock a cabinet that doesn't currently have one. This can be done with the help of a locksmith or by using tools such as paperclips, nail files, or bobby pins. In this article, we will explore the different methods for locking a plastic file cabinet and provide step-by-step guidance on how to secure your important documents.
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What You'll Learn
Using a nail file or paperclip to pick the lock
If you've lost the key to your plastic file cabinet, don't panic. With a little creativity and patience, you can easily pick the lock using a nail file or a paper clip. Here's how:
Using a Nail File:
To use a nail file for lockpicking, look for a nail clipper with a built-in nail filing tool. Most of these tools have a curved tip at the top of the file. Slide the file out from the base of the nail clippers and straighten it. When you're ready to pick the lock, insert the filing tool into the bottom of the keyhole with the curved tip facing downward. Push the tool into the keyhole as far as it will go; it should easily slip inside due to its curved tip.
Using a Paperclip:
Alternatively, you can use a paperclip as a lock-picking tool. Start by bending the paperclip into an "L" shape using a pair of pliers. Ensure the paperclip is not too slim, as it needs to be sturdy enough to turn without losing its shape. Once you've prepared your paperclip, insert the short, bent side into the bottom of the keyhole (known as the shear line). Turn the paperclip in the same direction that the lock turns, either left or right, to feel for the correct direction. Jiggle the paperclip until you hear a clicking sound, indicating that the lock has been picked.
Remember, picking locks can carry criminal charges if done illegally, so use these methods responsibly and only when necessary.
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Removing the lock with a screwdriver and hammer
If you need to break a lock with a screwdriver and hammer, there are a few methods you can try. Here is a step-by-step guide:
First, find a screwdriver with a tip small enough to fit into the keyhole of the lock. A standard flat-head or Phillips-head screwdriver should do the trick. If the tip is too wide, you won't be able to insert it into the keyhole. The type of slender screwdriver used for fixing jewellery and eyeglasses is perfect for most small and medium-sized locks.
Next, insert the screwdriver into the keyhole and gently tap it with the hammer. Be careful not to use too much force, as you don't want to damage the surrounding area or the lock itself. The goal is to apply constant movement to the pins inside the lock, not to use brute force.
Continue tapping the screwdriver with the hammer until the locking mechanism inside snaps. You may need to be patient and experiment with different angles and levels of pressure. Once the mechanism snaps, the lock will open.
Alternatively, instead of tapping the screwdriver, you can apply pressure to the back of the screwdriver with your thumb and turn it clockwise. This method aims to catch the pins inside the lock with the screwdriver's tip and push them up and out of place, releasing the lock.
With a little creativity, patience, and the right tools, you can easily break open a lock with a screwdriver and hammer without causing any damage to the surrounding area.
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Drilling out the lock
Drilling out a lock is a straightforward process, but it requires caution and the right tools. It is also a destructive process, so you should consider it a last resort.
First, you need to confirm that the lock can be drilled out. Only basic tumbler locks, doorknob locks, and deadbolts with traditional tumblers can be drilled out. If the lock has a center pin made of steel or a ball bearing in the middle pin, you won't be able to drill it out.
If you have confirmed that your lock can be drilled out, you will need the following tools:
- A power drill
- Multiple drill bits, including steel, black oxide, or titanium drill bits, which are the most durable
- A center punch and a hammer (optional, but recommended)
- Protective eyewear
Once you have gathered your tools, put on your protective eyewear and position the center punch just above the keyhole. Hammer the punch two or three times to create a divot that will guide your drill. If your keyhole is upside down, with the ridges pointing down, set the center punch guide hole at the bottom.
Attach a 1/8-inch (3mm) drill bit to your drill and drill slowly through the point you made with the center punch. When the drill bit gets stuck, switch to the next size up (a 1/4-inch bit) and keep drilling. Your goal is to drill through all of the pins inside the lock cylinder.
After you have drilled through the pins, insert a flathead screwdriver into the keyhole and twist it to unlock the door.
Drilling out a lock is a simple process, but it is important to take the necessary precautions and work slowly and carefully to avoid damaging your property or injuring yourself.
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Replacing a missing lock
If you are missing a lock for your plastic file cabinet, there are several options for replacing it.
First, you should check if you can obtain a replacement key from the manufacturer. If there is a lock and mechanism currently in the cabinet, you may not need to replace the lock. You can enter the lock code (found on the face of the lock core) and the manufacturer on a website like EasyKeys.com to purchase a replacement key.
If you cannot obtain a replacement key, you can replace the lock yourself or with the help of a locksmith. Replacing the lock yourself can be relatively easy if you can open the cabinet or drawers and have the proper replacement parts and tools. However, the tools used in this job can cause injuries if used carelessly or unskillfully, so it may be safer to hire a locksmith.
To replace the lock yourself, first remove the top drawer by opening the cabinet drawer closest to the lock. If you don't have a key, you may be able to open the drawer by turning the cabinet upside down (as many locks work by gravity) or by drilling through the lock cylinder with a regular drill bit. Once the drawer is open, use pliers to remove the C-clamp at the back of the lock, potentially using a flathead screwdriver to pry it open. Then, disconnect the mounting link and slide the lockout of the hole.
Next, you will need to obtain and install a new lock. It may be helpful to bring your old lock to the hardware store to find the exact same lock as the broken one. When installing the new lock, use the screw holes of the previous lock to put the new lock in place, then insert the C-clamp of the new lock into the hole. Hold the C-clamp flush with the inside wall of the cabinet and insert the two prongs of the clamp into the pre-drilled holes on the lock body to lock it in place. Check that the lock is well aligned with the locking system on the cabinet wall, and turn the key to test if the replacement was successful.
If you would prefer not to replace the lock yourself, a locksmith can help you replace the lock quickly, reliably, and safely. A locksmith can also create a new key for your lock, either in their shop or at your site.
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Using a locking bar
Choosing the Right Locking Bar:
First, you need to select the appropriate locking bar for your cabinet. Locking bars come in different sizes, usually ranging from 12" for a single-drawer cabinet to 56.75" for a five-drawer cabinet. Make sure to measure your cabinet and choose a locking bar that covers a portion of the top and bottom drawers without exceeding the cabinet's length.
Installation Process:
The installation process is straightforward and can be done in a few simple steps:
- Prepare the Necessary Tools: You will need a drill, a screwdriver, and a marker. Some locking bars, such as those from ABUS, come with a drill bit and screws, but you may need to purchase these separately if they are not included.
- Mount the Locking Bar: Position the locking bar on the small strip of the cabinet next to the drawer. You can choose to attach it to either the left or right side, ensuring there is at least a 0.5" frame to secure the bar.
- Secure with Screws: Initially, loosely attach the locking bar using screws. Line up the top and bottom holes and insert screws to hold it in place. Once you're satisfied with the positioning, tighten the screws securely.
- Add a Padlock: To enhance security, you can add a padlock to the locking bar. Choose a sturdy padlock, such as the ABUS 83/45 series, and loop it through the bar. You can even get the padlock keyed to match your home or business key for added convenience.
- Lock and Unlock: To lock the cabinet, raise the black handle, close the file bar, and lower the handle. To open, simply unlock the padlock, raise the handle, and lift the bar out.
Benefits of Using a Locking Bar:
Locking bars offer several advantages over other locking mechanisms:
- Enhanced Security: Locking bars provide a robust physical barrier, preventing the drawers from being opened. The heavy-duty construction, often made from 16-gauge steel, ensures that your files are well-protected.
- Versatility: Locking bars can be used on cabinets with or without built-in locks. They are also adaptable to different drawer configurations and can secure all drawers simultaneously.
- Ease of Use: Locking bars are easy to operate. They stay attached to the cabinet, swinging out of the way when unlocked, so you never have to worry about storing them during work hours.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to replacing locks or purchasing new cabinets, locking bars offer a more affordable solution without compromising security.
By following these steps and understanding the benefits of locking bars, you can effectively secure your plastic file cabinet, ensuring that your sensitive information remains confidential.
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Frequently asked questions
You can install a lock on a plastic file cabinet. Depending on the application, you can use cam locks, filing cabinet locking bars, hasps, plunger locks, or dead latch locks.
You can contact your local locksmith to order and install the lock for you.
Yes, you can install a file cabinet locking bar yourself. You can then lock it with a padlock of your choosing.
You can use a nail file, a paperclip, or a bobby pin to pick the lock.
You can straighten a paperclip and leave a slight curve at one end. Insert the paperclip into the keyhole in a vertical position and push down on the pins inside the lock. You can also use a nail file or bobby pin in a similar way.
