How to install a deadbolt in a door without a guide or jig

[@michaelmeyer5048]

@toolsandrepairs how long do you think this would take for a homeowner who's handy with tools?

[@toolsandrepairs]

The short answer is always longer than you think at first. Actually assembling the lock and strike plate of course only take a few minutes. But for all the measuring, sawing, chiseling and routing to take quicker than a few hours, you will need to be more than just handy with tools; this is not a beginner's carpentry job. The hole-sawing doesn't take too long. But the first time I did this I was shocked at how long the routing for the strike plates took but it's even longer just using chisels.

[@darrenstettner5381]

How do I know if I need to drill the hole at 2 3/8” or 2 3/4? That seems like it would depend on the internal mechanisms of the lock but I can’t find that information listed on any of the deadbolt boxes. Or on the deadbolt internals. Seriously, I’ve watched at least 20 videos now. I completely understand how to install the lock except for this one tiny detail that no one explains in any of the videos.

[@toolsandrepairs]

The instructions should tell you how to twist the inside of the lock to extend or shorten it. The center of the deadbolt should be about the same measurement from the end of the door as the doorknobs

[@darrenstettner5381]

@@toolsandrepairs thanks for getting back to me. After a few more hours of watching tutorials I finally came across someone that explained that most latch mechanisms can be switched to either size. I just don’t get why so many people who did these tutorials assumed the inner mechanisms of a door lock would be common knowledge that doesn’t need any explanation.

[@MrBruceBarham]

A paper template IS a guide