Metal Filing Cabinet Locks

Replacing Metal Filing Cabinet Locks: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you have a metal filing cabinet that is no longer secure due to a faulty lock or broken key stuck inside, it’s time to replace it. Replacing the lock on your metal filing cabinet is not as complicated as you might think. In fact, with these instructions, you can do it yourself in just a few simple steps.

Step 1: Purchase a New Lock

The first step in replacing your metal filing cabinet lock is to purchase a new one. You can find the three most common replacement locks for metal filing cabinets in our Metal Filing Cabinet Locks Section in the dropdown menu. This listing is by far the most common type in the UK. Make sure to choose the right size and type of lock for your cabinet before removing the old one (send a good photo to us if you are not sure).

Step 2: Remove the Old Lock

To remove the old lock, open the top drawer and from the inside, use a screwdriver or plyers to press in the mounting clips on the side of the body that hold it in place. Once you’ve squashed the clips in (or removed the surrounding clips entirely), gently pull out the old lock from its position through the front of the draw.

Step 3: Install the New Lock

Insert the new lock into the same position where you removed the old one. Make sure that it fits snugly and securely into place. Once in place the clips on the body will engage to attach it firmly to your filing cabinet.

Step 4: Test It Out

Once you’ve installed your new lock, test it out by inserting and turning the key. Make sure that it opens and closes smoothly without any issues before trying to lock the drawer. The peg at the back of the lock needs to align into the rod that runs up the side of the cabinet, locking all drawers in place.

Replacement Keys

We sell Replacement Keys for all types of office furniture including filing cabinets so if you have just lost your keys or need spares then you don’t need to replace the lock. All we need is the replacement key number that is stamped on the lockface and on the original keys – place an order before 2pm and we will dispatch immediately.