Thumb Latch Door Handle Won't Retract - SOLVED! Household Hack

My thumb latch door handle wouldn't fully retract. I this video we'll see how to remove and clean the unit. I'll be romving and cleaning a Kwikset door handle/
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[@AverageMe]

Sometimes it's surprising how a simple cleaning can solve mechanical problems. Of course, once your handle is off, you could easily replace it by reversing these steps.

[@lisavavouleas6612]

Amazing! I used WD-40. I took the part outside and sprayed everything. I let it soak for a while, then used Q-tips to get into the parts to clean out all the dirt and gunk. Wiped everything off real good. Put it all back together and I was amazed! I’ve been fighting with this door for months. It now opens the way it should. I am not a carpenter by no means & your video really helped me! Thank you!

[@laurachavez8789]

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[@Tallthing53]

Thanks for explicitly sharing your observations & thought process. Many experts are not teachers and take for granted the little steps they forget to pass along. You’re right about the cleaning. My front door Baldwin thumb latch would not easily depress. Opened it up to find both a spider egg nest AND an old mud wasp installation! A good brush out and puff or two of graphite and I feel so empowered! Thank you.

[@CliftonPhotographer]

I think I actually saw them selling graphite at my local Dollar Tree. Like everything, I was thinking about buying it but have to check my supplies first because I'm pretty sure I have some.

[@davidwimberley5026]

Excellent video! Makes it simple. And it's a thorough cleaning. But just be aware, if you're in a hurry, don't have much time, you probably don't have to do all that to get it to work. I only had to tighten everything up (the inside screws and outside screws.

[@jayjacobs2173]

The brass piece is the problem. It's too soft and that cup shape should be a half moon. The mechanism wears into it and the turning of the handle will open the latch less and less. Adjusting and cleaning will help slightly but it will only be temporary. It's a poor design; that piece should be hardened and the contact surface is too small resulting in high pressure at the contact point.

[@ameranadianveteran860]

Holy smokes!!!! You are right on! Just pulled the mechanism apart. There is a pile of metal dust beneath it. The half-moon part gouged an obvious notch into the piece that actuates the mechanism! You can easily compare the 2 sides of the piece to see the difference! What engineer chose soft metal for this part!? That’s shameful as far as I’m concerned. I’m going to have to get a new piece from the manufacturer or a whole new unit.I wish I could post a picture as mine is wickedly obvious. Junk metal.

[@briandolan5519]

Yes, finding that worn replacement parts difficult so far. But that is the exact problem I have. Groove in the half round spindle

[@carolynlange4518]

This. Was. SO HELPFUL. Thank you thank you thank you!!! I was about to call a handyman and you just saved me so much money!!

[@AverageMe]

Carolyn you are too kind! Thank you for the generous gift. I am glad you found this to be helpful!

[@natalya6091]

" Truth is ever to be found in simplicity and not in the multiplicity and confusion of things" Isaak Newton Simplify. Thank you!!!

[@AverageMe]

Keepin' it simple!

[@natalya6091]

@@AverageMe Keepin'it curious! Thank you, dear Mark.

[@jacksmith2315]

@@AverageMe when in doubt follow the kiss system. Keep it simple stupid haha. My old man used to say that

[@Debra11]

Good old soap and water works for a quick clean. Silicone spray to top it off makes things work after that.

[@1DayVerySOON]

Sharing since we have a similar problem, though it's a deadbolt lock.

[@MelissaZimmermannVA]

Thanks for this video! It was very helpful and kept me from having to completely replace our handle (yet...) I'm a newbie at home repair and this video was very easy to follow. Thanks again!

[@EricaLoudon16]

Thank you!! And I love your hm plaque!!!

[@AverageMe]

Thanks! I have Disney videos scattered throughout my channel if you're a Disney fan. That HM plaque now has a new home here in Florida! kzbin.info/aero/PLB23kOactPIaPGTras2O4iZw98K7cW-iH kzbin.info/aero/PLB23kOactPIZMLY7si_eYj8M9vMvuXRur kzbin.info/aero/PLB23kOactPIa2PTpgfzTOub5EyntKGC9Z

[@EricaLoudon16]

Yes!! I'll definitely look! Cool thanks

[@JBGoode697]

Great video and quick fix for me. Thanks so much!

[@Mr123santa]

Thank you! Amazingly simply. Really appreciate the video.

[@heatheroliver8182]

Thank you

[@jalpro7997]

Thanks

[@natalya6091]

Wow...the second...how nice to meet everybody again here.

[@HoroRH]

umm, no. for me it was never about oil, but after 25+ years the cupped shaft wore a groove and that prevented full retraction of the bolt. Can the plate and shaft be replaced without buying a completely new set?

[@AverageMe]

In most cases, yes. You should be able to purchase the internal compnenets.

[@billycolquhoun4264]

Thank you sir 🍻

[@Doofus171]

I worked for a homebuilder, they used these Quickset handle sets. They all failed. They are terrible.

[@AverageMe]

I can see why. They really shouldn't wear out like this one has.

[@philc1884]

Hi, my issue is the passage latch no longer springs back seamlessly when it contacts the face plate. I have to turn the handle on either side just slightly now. It's happened before and I've just bought a new mechanism but thought maybe there was a fix? thank you!

[@jimmcdiarmid7308]

Where r u Mark, missing you on Travel Time

[@AverageMe]

I've been busy with the move.

[@martinlachapelle9762]

Thank you sir, you solved my problem 🤝

[@joeschmoe5009]

I was thinking maybe id try spraying brake clean to clean out the old grease

[@jimmcdiarmid7308]

Graphite or silicone spray

[@AverageMe]

Good choices. I prefer not to use graphite powder as it get's messy and glogs after a while.

[@luismastellari7515]

And from the other side?

[@AverageMe]

The other side worked okay from the start. It was the push button that was not working as well. But great catch ... I really should have shown that!

[@dareptile2653]

It is annoying me because I spent about 150 for the dang thing. Mine occasionally seizes up the thumb lever won't budge and I don't want to force/damage it. What I got is much newer than what you have

[@AverageMe]

I'm guessing something is occasionally getting caught inside, maybe a wood chip or something similar. I'd open it up and take a look.

[@dareptile2653]

@@AverageMe I did already and I saw the components that moved when using the thumb lever, could not put my finger on it. I used gun oil on the moving parts and it kept happening, usually 1 out of 5 times and when I'm half dressed walking the dog to come back inside at 4am. Have to access via garage. Today I went to where I got it and swapped it out, so far so good I tested it about 50 times. This is one of the new keiksets at home Depot.

[@DarcyLewis1]

Graphite

[@foomark]

It's not any better at the end. It still doesn't retract.

[@alan4sure]

It retracted enough to open the door. THAT determines whether it's fixed or not.

[@freddiejordan697]

😊😅😅😅z zzz

[@keithwhatley5094]

I'm a locksmith. The problem is that latches worn-out. Like another person commented it's not a half moon anymore it's actually getting those outer edges where the half moon was eating away so the longer you use it the more it will eat away and eventually it will not work any longer and you will be forced to replace the latch.

[@AverageMe]

I'm sure you're right, but if we can clean it and get a little more use out of it, I'll go for that. Thanks for your comment, I'll be trying my hand at re-keying a lock soon! Maybe it'll give you a laugh, maybe a thumbs up.

[@keithwhatley5094]

@Average Me oh yeah there's no need to replace it prematurely. You did the same thing I would have done. You won't have a trouble doing a rekey. It's not complicated, there's just a little bit of dexterity involved.

[@larryb51]

Ha ha! If I had read all the comments I would have come to this conclusion a lot sooner. BTW, the thumb style handle this entry door causes this latch to wear primarily on one side because the thumb lever rotates the shaft one direction only. Rotating the interior knob would bet the latch open all the way turning it one direction, but only part way the other. Unfortunately, that won't help some one stuck outside on a cold winter's night. I decided to replace it before one of the kids got lock out!

[@mts3857]

Thank you

[@kgm5899]

Thanks for this video! It gave me the courage to try fixing our door by myself! I ended up having to completely disassemble it because a spring mechanism was loose, but I'm proud to say once I saw it, it was an easy fix and not as daunting as I thought it was going to be!!

[@hondata70]

Me not knowing how stuff works, when they brake I just take apart, I tell my self what’s the worst that can happen it’s already broken. Lol. And for the most part I can fix it! Just remember the way you took it apart it’s the way it goes back together just reverse order. You’ll save a hole lot of money just by trying.

[@ricepicker2000]

Worked for me!! Thanks for this 👍🏼 I was going to dismantle and determine why, but fell on this video just as I was about to start taking it out. Ended up cleaning everything out with brake cleaner (lever part, the other parts as well). Then added oil and WD40 to everything that I thought needed it. Moves smoothly now. That gunk probably added up everywhere messing with the tolerances.

[@AverageMe]

Brake cleaner sounds like a good solution (pun intended). Thanks!

[@jacksmith2315]

Oil an wd40 is a good idea. Oil to lubricant and wd40 to keep the water out since thats what its really for, no really a lubricant. Thats actually what wd stands for water displacement 40 different uses. Believe thats what the 40 is. Definitely what the wd stands for.

[@orangejab_]

Hello! Thank u for this video, i managed to fix our house’s door handle. I thought it was going to be super complicated but it turns out it just needed a little tightening, cleaning and some lubricant! 😃

[@AverageMe]

Cool! I was glad that's I mine needed, as well. Thanks for sharing!

[@Benappy253]

Outstanding video and I have resolved my issue!, HATS OFF SIR 🥂CHEERS ! Single gal here trying to budget on repair and DYI. Also I used the new WD GEL LUBRICANT worked like a charm.

[@AverageMe]

Thank you! You made my day

[@jacksmith2315]

The wd gel is good, but in a situation where dust and stuff collect the gel may hold more grit and grim. If it happens again try something that dried but still lubricates. Like a dry graphite spray. But good job taking it apart and fixing it yourself. Always good to hear stories of independent woman repairing and replacing stuff themselves.

[@BB-re6nz]

Watching this a year late. My father in law had this same issue and the locksmith charged $250 for a new door handle/lock. The same one you had

[@Jazz-ji9zu]

When you're willing to pay instead of investigating yourself, this will always be the result.

[@tjp1451]

Thank you, I have been stuck outside of my house for a week and now I can finally get back in!

[@AverageMe]

Clever!

[@jessieatkins4361]

Door slammed from wind....Locked out. Thankful my son was here. Going to fix tonight!

[@maylh]

I don't see much difference before and after.

[@AverageMe]

It is hard to see since it never fully retracted, even when turned with the knob. But the door could be opened with the thumb latch after the cleaning.

[@MrBeastmania]

I swapped a latch off another door in the house and now both work great. Just letting you know in case some one else needs help

[@Starry_Night_Sky7455]

Good 💡 idea

[@tturner6200]

Worked!. The exact problem with the notch worn down. Found an older handset with the tumbler intact and it turned out to be the right length. Did not have to buy any new part or wait for Weiser warranty. Thanks again for your simple explanation!

[@ABEairsoft]

This worked!! Thank you SO MUCH

[@jacksmith2315]

As far as lubricants, depends on the situation and atmosphere. Grease if its not dusty n dirty since the grease is just going to collect it all, thats when i like to use silicon spray or graphite spray. Working in an automotive shop, its crazy how many different types of lubricants there are

[@baby-sheesh]

This worked for me, thank you!

[@RickFlamingo]

Graphite

[@edbouhl3100]

I probably wouldn’t have tried that, but after being lubed my lock does work again! Thanks very much!

[@onenikkione]

I've never seen a lock-set come a part by pushing down on that lever @ 1:06 - learned something new. Probably best to use a dry-graphite type lube made for locks, not oil. (CRC Dry Graphite Lube, 3-in-1 Dry Lube for Locks, B'laster Industrial Dry Lubricant, Wd-40 Dirt and Dust Resistant Dry Lube to name a few)

[@AverageMe]

Great suggestions! Thank you

[@sweetrollofnirn]

Ah ok I found another way to fix the bolt not closing all the way. I had to lock it and move the knobs at the same time with minimal strength I managed to fix it lol.

[@AverageMe]

There's more than one way to skin a cat! Nice job!

[@JenniferandMark2014]

Moving day is fast approaching 😁Jenn

[@AverageMe]

Yesterday! Today we are in Florida.

[@JenniferandMark2014]

@@AverageMe Woo Hoo!! Living the dream!

[@AverageMe]

@@JenniferandMark2014 -25 actual temp in Wisconsin, 82 here. So far I made the right choice!

[@mr.merriman7505]

Job complete. Wife happy. Thank you!

[@ryanfrisby7389]

Awesome video Mark! I swear, you are one of the most creative people out there!

[@AverageMe]

I'm just curious and cheap, lol!

[@ryanfrisby7389]

@@AverageMe lol

[@natalya6091]

@@ryanfrisby7389 Agreed.Enjoy your Tuesday, dear Ryan.

[@ryanfrisby7389]

@@natalya6091 thanks, you as well! Going to enjoy the day off as they closed my office to to the ice in Kentucky

[@natalya6091]

@@ryanfrisby7389 lol

[@endconnr]

You seem like a sweetheart. I am going to try to fix my door now, with my new confidence, instilled in me by this video!

[@AverageMe]

Good luck! ANd thanks.

[@jonathanday5951]

Thanks for the post! My front door opens with ease now.

[@r.r.2573]

Thank you for this

[@lucasharris4209]

Going to try this. Thanks

[@sydneym.778]

Thanks for the video. I have had issues with the mechanism not retracting for over a year now and sometimes I can hardly get into the house when it's unlocked because it won't retract and I have to use two hands to push down the lever and to push the door open. It's a scary situation. Could it possibly be that the spring needs replacing besides lubrication? Can you buy a spring for that door handle?

[@AverageMe]

I would just get an entirely new one. Handle/latch mechanisms are not very expensive. If it’s can follow this video, you can put a new one in place.

[@sydneym.778]

@@AverageMe Thank you Average Me! I really appreciate your video and response. My situation has been stressing me out for a long time and I didn't know where to start. After watching your video I feel like I have the courage now to take the handle apart to lubricate it and see if that works.❤️

[@jacksmith2315]

It sounds like there may be something jamming up in there if its that hard to operate. Doesnt hurt to take it apart and try, but it may have to be replaced. Good luck with your repair

[@sydneym.778]

@@jacksmith2315 Thanks!

[@rogerthat24]

Nice video. Thanks! I'm going to try this. If that stops working again, I'm just going to grind the bold down to make it shorter.

[@ItIsColdHere]

Alternatively, if you don’t want to take everything apart, spray some oil into the latch mechanism…the side where your thumb presses. Worked like a charm for me.

[@tychodancer]

Thank you!

[@MountainManFred]

I did this today on a slightly different assy. I went back with some clear grease I had around. I didn't overdo it, but put enough to smooth the action. Mine was also one that the mechanism could be turned 180*..did that and works like a champ! thx for posting..

[@peterservon9370]

Don’t use an oil, it attracts dirt, and will lead to premature maintenance. Most of WD40 will evaporate after the pressure spray cleans away the dirt.

[@Mr.Worf63]

I put some Vaseline & WD40 on the latch mechanism and it works much more smoothly. The outside thumb mechanism is pulling the latch farther in now. Thank You !! 👍

[@dwiseman50]

Ty lifesaver buddy!!

[@AverageMe]

Thanks Dan!

[@thingsbyme]

Thank you! The info in how to remove the knob in this video saved me from having to buy a whole new set!

[@kristenoconnor2464]

But what if you can’t get inside to get to the other side of the door?

[@robmartin1064]

Fixed my door thank you!

[@tinman10]

Thank you. This is exactly what I needed

[@crazaholic1968]

I have the same problem. Was planning to replace the lock. But now will give this a try.

[@aaronbaraiya3692]

How did it go? I'm gonna give it a try as well

[@crazaholic1968]

@@aaronbaraiya3692 I took it apart. Applied some WD-40 but still the latch was kind of stuck. Ended up buying a replacement latch from Amazon for $20 including shipping. That fixed the problem. Easy install. Sorry about the late reply I just fixed it two days ago.

[@aaronbaraiya3692]

@Craza holic ok thanks 😊

[@bl9531]

Thx for posting - see the spring on the top of the mechanism at 3:00? Mine had accumulated some gunk. I cleaned that up - sprayed the mechanism with WD40 and voila!

[@AverageMe]

Amazing what a good internal cleaning can do!

[@frankd9015]

Is it easy to put it back on? I'm afraid to take apart mine and not able to put it back on correctly!

[@bl9531]

@@frankd9015 pretty easy to perform a simple clean and lubrification. The only way to learn is by doing!

[@sydneym.778]

Is it possible that the spring on top of the mechanism needs replacing. Thanks for mentioning the spring.

[@bl9531]

@@sydneym.778 I suppose the spring could need replacing but that doesn’t seem likely. Then again, it’s not like I am some kind of expert lol. I learn because I am not afraid of failure- the only way to learn is to try -

[@xinshi3090]

Spray lubricant. So can I used wd40 here or something else? I know your generally not suppose to use it in lock. But this won’t be exposed to outside elements right?

[@AverageMe]

In general I don’t like much liquid lubricant in a lock or latch because it attracts dirt and eventually gets gummed up again.

[@xinshi3090]

@@AverageMe yeah that’s what I’ve heard about not spraying it into locks too. What other type would you recommend?

[@monke6776]

WD40 will always work for lube

[@jacksmith2315]

WD isnt a great lube. It will work for a short time. Use something like a dry graphite spray or silicone spray. Wipe up the access.