How to Use a Lock Shim

We have all experienced the unsettling annoyance of losing our keys to a padlock at one time or another. Whether it was to a locker, shed, storage unit, or bicycle, this little reality of life is bound to happen. The first thing you may want to do getting some professional help to simply come out and let you into your property. You can contact us at Locksmith Anthem for more information.

You may also consider utilizing a shim on the lock first. It is easier than cracking the combo to the padlock. Padlock shims have slender metal pieces that can be inserted into the base of the shackle. The shackle is the u-shaped piece of the locking mechanism. The shim will manipulate the padlock as if you had inserted the right key or entered the appropriate combination in order to release the shackle.

Attaching the Shims

There is a piece of metal that sticks out from the bottom center area of the shim. Insert it into the base of the shackle on the inner left side. When done correctly, the two handles on the shim will be facing outward.  Once it is properly inserted into the shackle of the lock, wiggle it around a bit to ensure that is has gone in completely; try to do this without bending it. If it is properly secure, take a second shim and place it into the right side of the padlock shackle. It should also be facing outward. This step will usually only be needed if the lock is a Master or sophisticated padlock.

Triggering Release Mechanism

Once both shims are in place, if that is the case, fluidly move them around in order to trigger the releasing mechanism. You can go in any direction; it really doesn’t matter whether it is clockwise or counter clockwise. Lastly, place your ear close to the padlock while moving the shims and listen for a click. Once you hear the click, try to pull the shackle open. Keep doing this until you hear the click.