As an RVer, one of my nightmares is someone breaking into my motorhome, and I bet there are many other RV owners just like me. No matter how careful you are, you cannot stop thieves from doing what they do.
When your door has been bypassed, it’s important that you either replace the lock or learn how to rekey RV locks. It doesn’t seem very easy, but I will attempt to make things simpler for you. Let’s get into the details!
8 Steps to Rekey RV Locks
Gather The Needed Tools
Here are the necessary tools to get your job done:
- Screw
- RV Manual
- Tweezers
- Change a lock rekey kit
- Screwdriver
Step 1. Identify Your RV Lock’s Brand
The recommended process of rekeying your RV may vary depending on the manufacturer. So you should start by verifying the brand of your RV lock before buying the proper rekey kit and getting to work.
There are several ways you can do this:
- Check out your owner’s manual: It usually includes all the information about your RV, including the RV Lock’s Brand.
- Contact the manufacturer: The manufacturer can help you deal with nearly any problem related to your RV.
- Ask questions on RV groups or forums: It gives you access to other RVers who have the same vehicle as yours. That way, you will get a lot of valuable information, including the recommended lock rekey kit.
Step 2: Separate the Lock from your RV
The next step involves taking apart your lock from its fixed position. Do this by removing the hardware that secures the latch plate. After that, slide your lock out from its original position.
Step 3: Take apart the RV Lock Cylinder
Separate your lock cylinder from the lock with the retainer ring tool (hopefully your rekey kit has it).
Step 4: Get Rid Of Your Old Pins
Then, proceed to insert the plug follower tool into the cylinder housing; this tool is shaped a bit like a cigarette and is often made of metal. It will help you remove the lock plug and the pins.
Step 5: Install New Pins
Insert the new pins to their rightful place. Make sure to do this carefully so the new key you intend to use will unlock your door later.
Because the pins are very small, it’s best that you use tweezers to pick them up.
Step 6: Check Out New Pins With Your New Key
Now, you’re almost done setting up your lock for the RV replacement keys. Now is the time to insert your new key and check it. If you have installed pins correctly, your new key will slide in smoothly and move pins into the unlocked position.
Fine-tune the pins if needed until all things work great.
Step 7: Reattach You Lock to The RV Door
Reverse the steps you did to disassemble the lock and put it back onto the RV door. Then, give your key one final test to make sure everything functions correctly.
Step 8: Get Professional Help
If you have tried your hardest and could not get your DIY rekey locks to work, there’s nothing wrong with calling a professional.
Honestly, I recommend contacting a locksmith if you can afford it rather than wasting time struggling with your RV door.
Bonus tips
- Replacing RV locks might be easier for you than rekeying them. After all, there’s no need to tinker with pins or any cylinder. You just need to put the new lock into place.
- Locksmiths will charge around 20 to 50 dollars for rekeying, and if you get roadside assistance, you’ll have to pay around $65, perhaps even more if you want emergency service. These are some things to keep in mind if you want to hire professionals.
- When removing cylinders, you should use the key made for your specific lock brand. For example, Global Link’s RV lock cylinder removal key will only work on Global Link locks and not those from other manufacturers.
FAQs
Is Rekeying Your RV Locks Legal?
Yes, doing travel trailer key replacement is fine if you’re not committing crimes or theft against other people’s properties. As long as it’s your motorhome you’re working on, there’s no harm in trying to rekey its deadbolt or lock.
Can I replace the RV lock cylinder and not my entire lock?
Yes. You can find an RV door lock cylinder replacement online. This part can replace your old cylinder in case it malfunctions. You can also use it to make all locks in your motorhome the same, so there’s no need to carry multiple keys at once.
The Bottom Line
Hopefully, by now, you know how to rekey RV locks.
Although I wish you never need to use this knowledge, it’s a good thing to prepare for. No matter how careful you try to be, accidents happen, and you should not beat yourself up because of it.
Was my post helpful? How did the process of replacing your RV locks go? Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts with us.
Please spread my how-to post to your acquaintances and friends who are also RVers. Who knows, they might need to rekey their RV locks one day.
Welcome to a new journey! I am Rober Clark, also a full-time RV-er and currently exploring the US with Dane. I have four years of working as a contractor, so building a home inside the RV is an extremely rewarding task for me. I find new challenges and new limits to break every day.