Help - key stuck in lock

MerlinSouthDub

Hi there,

After work today, I went to unlock my bike as usual. I was having some difficulty getting it open, and eventually I pulled out the key. It was then that I realised that a bit of the key had broken off, and was now stuck inside the lock.

The lock is a Krpytonite U-lock. I have a spare key, so if I can get the bit of the key out of the lock, I should be fine.

Any tips on getting the broken key out of the lock, or will I need a locksmith?

Thanks,
Merlin

recedite

bash it with a hammer, holding the opening face down, so the broken bit falls out.

victorcarrera

First try putting the broken key stub back in and jiggle it around. If it lines up with the broken bit it may be just enough to open it.
Then try removing it with a small tweezers.
Or put a little superglue on the end of the key stub, hold it in position for a minute or two and it might pull it out.
If you don't have the patience for all that or don't want to pay a locksmith an Angle Grinder can get you going again in about 10 seconds.

MerlinSouthDub

Thanks guys. I'll fiddle around with it tomorrow and hopefully sort it out. I'm just worried some thief will find a way to open it overnight!

cdaly_

Also, if the key is steel, you could use some kind of magnet to get the broken bit out. Maybe use a coat hanger or such along with a magnet.

MerlinSouthDub

Where might I get a magnet?

Thanks again,
Merlin

blorg

http://www.wikihow.com/Make-an-Electromagnet

droidus

MerlinSouthDub wrote: »

Where might I get a magnet?

Thanks again,
Merlin

The fridge?

funkyjebus

MerlinSouthDub wrote: »

Where might I get a magnet?

Thanks again,
Merlin

an old speaker.