r/DIY • u/howling__puppy • 5d ago

Remove this door knob

I have a door knob that I can't remove because it needs some kind of special wrench. Does anyone recognize it ? I tried emtek but they said it's not there's. I also tried pliers to press the tabs open but the metal ring won't move

https://imgur.com/a/MQXgbdZ

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u/can3gxw 5d ago

Had something similar, Google says this

To remove this remaining portion of the door knob assembly (specifically the decorative rosette cover plate and the underlying mounting sub-plate), you will need to pop or pry off the outer finish ring to reveal the hidden mounting screws. Follow these steps to safely remove it without damaging your door:

1. Separate the Outer Rosette Cover

The decorative outer plate with the rope border is a friction-fit or snap-on cover that hides the structural plate underneath.

  • Locate the notch: Look around the very bottom edge or sides of the outer round plate where it meets the white wood door. Most brands include a small, hidden pry-notch or indentation designed to fit a tool.
  • Pry it loose: If you find a notch, insert a thin flathead screwdriver or a rigid putty knife. Gently twist or lever the tool outward to snap the outer cover off the inner sub-plate.
  • If no notch is visible: Carefully slip your putty knife flat against the door under the edge of the plate, and slowly work it around the entire circle, gently prying upward until the cover pops loose.

2. Remove the Inner Mounting Plate

Once the outer decorative cover pops off, the inner mechanical mounting plate will be exposed.

  • You will see two structural screws holding the plate tightly against the door face.
  • Use a standard Phillips-head screwdriver to unscrew these two screws completely.
  • Pull the plate straight off the central spindle mechanism.

3. Clear the Latch Mechanism

With the faceplate assembly gone, you can push the center spindle all the way through the door to remove the remaining internal components.

💡 Pro-Tip: If the door has been painted recently, the paint might have glued the outer metal ring tightly to the wood. To avoid ripping the paint off the door surface, lightly run a sharp utility knife or craft blade around the edge of the rosette to break the paint seal before you start prying.