How to change the combination on a Sargent and Greenleaf mechanical lock

Sargent & Greenleaf Combination Changing Instructions

3-Wheel Standard Size Locks

NOTE: READ COMPLETE INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE OPERATING THE LOCK OR CHANGING THE COMBINATION

CHANGING TO A NEW COMBINATION

Make up a new combination consisting of three numbers. Do not set the third number between 0 and 20 if your lock used a dial with the spindle splined on 50. This is called the forbidden zone, and only applies to the last (3rd) number of the combination.

Do not set the 3rd number between 90 and 99 or between 0 and 10 if the dial spindle is splined on 41.

If you are uncertain of the spindle splining, simply avoid numbers between 90 and 99 and those between 0 and 20 for the last (3rd) number of the combination.

Adjacent combination numbers should not be closer than five numbers to each other. Do not select combination numbers that all end with a 0 or 5. Do not use numbers that represent birthdays, phone numbers, or other personal information. Do not use numbers that comprise a strictly rising or falling sequence. For instance, 25-44-67 is not as good as 44-25-67.

If you are not sure how to dial the combination on your lock, please refer to steps on how to open a Sargent & Greenleaf mechanical lock for help.

1. Stating anywhere, turn the dial left (counterclockwise), stopping when the first combination number comes to the CHANGING index, the FOURTH time.
2. Turn the dial right (clockwise), stopping when the second number comes to the CHANGING index the THIRD time.
3. Turn the dial left, stopping when the third number comes to the CHANGING index the SECOND time.
4. With the third number at the CHANGING index, insert the change key into the hole in the lock cover until the wing is entirely inside the lock case, and the key comes to a positive stop.
5. Turn the key one quarter turn counterclockwise. With the change key in this position, turn the dial left (counterclockwise), stopping when the first new combination number aligns with the CHANGING index the FOURTH time.
6. Turn the dial right (clockwise), stopping when the second new combination number aligns with the CHANGING index the THIRD time.
7. Turn the dial left, stopping when the third new combination number aligns with the CHANGING index the SECOND time.
8. Turn the change key clockwise a quarter turn and remove it. Your new combination should now be installed in the lock.

Important: After changing the combination, the lock should be opened and locked several times (by dialing to the opening index) WITH THE SAFE DOOR OPEN.

Warning: Never insert the change key into the lock when the cover is removed. Always be certain the wing of the change key is entirely within the lock before turning the key.