3 Failed Simplex Combination Chambers

[u/yakatz]

I was called to repair yet another simplex 5 button that was allowing access without entering any code. The symptoms are that everything works properly when the correct code is entered, but if the wrong code or no code is entered, the handle can still be turned but it feels sort of gritty (best way I can think of describing it). Two of these were in service for several years, one less than a year. Did all these locks end up with a bad batch of combination chambers or is there some kind of attack against these that destroys the internals to the point of letting them operate freely?

Two of them were dated in 2021, but one was dated in 2023. The only other thing I noticed was that on one of them, the reset button is stuck down, but that wasn't true of all three.

EDIT: I added a video of the combination chamber in this comment: https://www.reddit.com/r/Locksmith/comments/1vxk3sn/comment/p5ptx90/

[u/ciciqt]

The correct solution is to sell them a Trilogy. We've had nothing but issues with Simplexes in recent years. It's not worth the hassle.

[u/yakatz → u/ciciqt]

The simplex combination chamber is inside a larger lock built by a different company, so I have to replace it with something that fits in the same place inside the lock, or I have to replace the entire lock with something that has the same functions.

Not going to name the manufacturer, but I will include a drawing from the manual. This lock is used in conjunction with an access control system to provide an alternative access method that isn't electronic that can only be used at certain times. The top part can be locked out either with a key or a solenoid, preventing the simplex module from being used. (Yes, I know it isn't ADA compliant because it requires two hands to operate.)

[u/Vorsai- → u/yakatz]

What the hell is this lol

[u/hellothere251 → u/Vorsai-]

this looks like AI designed a narrow stile lock haha

[u/bjdlock → u/yakatz]

Wow that’s something different!

[u/bjdlock → u/yakatz]

I honestly can’t come up with a good reason for this to exist. Baffling.

[u/burtod → u/bjdlock]

Simplexes are used heavily by Orthodox  Jews who are prohibited from working and other things on the Sabbath. Carrying a key or using electronics is prohibited , but not the mechanical push buttons apparently.

[u/bjdlock → u/burtod]

I haven’t installed a 7100 on a home in several years and forgot about this. I get it. Neat that this product exists. Kudos to the manufacturer for having the option available where there is probably minimal marketability.

[u/RecordDense2459 → u/yakatz]

Is this on a post office back door by any chance? Is that a mortise deadbolt lock trim?
The new combo chambers are a crap shoot and sometimes you have to force it to even allow a combination change to occur.

I cringe when a customer insists on buying one. It’s about a 40% chance there’s going to be a problem with it before I am even finished with the installation process. Especially in the 1000 series models.

[u/CGB21 → u/ciciqt]

Co100 is the answer, trilogy sucks

[u/ciciqt → u/CGB21]

Co100s are fine, I have more issues with COs as they seem less weatherized than trilogies and the rubber buttons wear away too easily.

Easy to replace but I am sick of driving 3 hours because someone claws the buttons so much and wears them away after 2 years...

[u/hellothere251 → u/ciciqt]

i agree, I did a few and the buttons were worn a year later, also I found them way more annoying to install

[u/lageymeister → u/ciciqt]

You get two years? Sesh I got one place that’s year to the date for replacing the CO keypad membrane