Replacing locks on garage doors - Easy Job?

Question

Hello,I'm still waiting to hear from Hendersons about a request for spares (see below), and while I'm waiting I thought I'd ask for any hints and tips about the job. Is it easy to replace the locks/handles on a garage door? Any gotchas?On a related question, any recommendations on stand-alone alarms for garages? I've seen a few in the sheds and the portable battery ones seem cheap and simple, although I think I'd feel more comfortable with a mains one. Are there any that double up as a light when detecting movement?Thanks,DougieWe've moved into a house with two garage doors with no lock keys. The sticker on the back of one of the doors says "Merlin MK 2A" although some documentation that the previous owner left behind says "Merlin MK 2B". The doors are metal, green, up-and-over doors. The spring runs along the top of the door. There are photographs of them here:    (Left door - handle and lock)   (Right door - handle and lock)   (Both doors seen from a few metres away)At the moment I can't lock them and would like to be able to. Could you please advise me on what parts I need to replace the locks/handles?Many thanks,Dougie Nisbet

EricP · Accepted Answer

I found all the bits on the web two years ago for those locks but can't remember where, sorry.

But the conclusion I came to was they were a waste of time as they can be broken easily. Most I know have opted for the T bar type of external protection and burglaries have dropped to almost zero.

My advice would therefore be get T bars for the doors.

EricP · Answer

manatbandq · Answer

Just go to the Henderson web page and click through to the buy on line section for spare parts. Answer the questions about your type of door and it offers you the correct parts to buy.

I am most impressed with Henderson so far. They claim to keep parts for doors manufactured up to 40 years ago (ours is about 35). Just need to wait and see how quickly they deliver.

MBQ

Dougie Nisbet · Answer

I've done that but it appears to offer more than one type of handle:

ELB Lock Pack Locking handle for wide range door types pre-1992. The square spiggot can be cut to size. Two keys supplied 032085 £25.28 + VAT DLB Lock Pack Locking handle for single Dolphin doors pre-1987. Two keys supplied 032054 £25.28 + VAT

Dougie Nisbet · Answer

I see what you mean. The Henderson replacement parts aren't cheap and since I'm not bothered cosmetically about the security I think I might get better security far more cheaply using a different approach.

The Natural Philosopher · Answer

I think you would be wise. Round here we have had a spate of shed and garage burglaries.

Anything that yields to a jemmy , or a quick burst from a cordless drill, in seconds, is relatively useless. Anything that takes 5 minutes to crack is good.

manatbandq · Answer

Did you get a reply to your e-mail? My spare parts turned up within48hours and I must say I can't fault Henderson for service (noconnection other than as a customer). Have you tried 'phoning them?MBQ

Dougie Nisbet · Answer

No and No. I don't think I'll chase them as I'll probably go for something more cheap 'n cheerful. I'd be looking at 70 quid or so for two garage door lock replacements - 70 quid would buy a lorra padlocks!

Dougie

Replacing locks on garage doors - Easy Job?

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