Tumbler lock won't pop

[kyle0050]

When I went to my machine today and did some servicing I closed it and locked it all back up but then I realized I needed to do something else and now the lock won't pop to allow me to turn it to open the machine when the key is inserted and turned. Any ideas on how to fix this? It's a usi 3132 vending machine.

HOPE SOMEONE CAN HELP ME!

[AZVendor]

Does the T-handle unlock and pop out or is that what you're saying won't happen?  Does the key turn in the lock?  If so then you're T-handle could be jammed.  Try a pair of pliers to pull on the handle and see if it pops out.  You might have a bent flange on the door or the door isn't square or the cabinet isn't level.

[Southeast Treats]

A sticky lock is usually a mechanical issue, if you can gently tug on the key it should pop out.  You may not have turned the key far enough if you were in a rush; you said the key did turn so you were using the correct key (it can get confusing if you have multiple different locks; easier to standardize on 1 or 2 keys).  Also may have closed it too tightly, the locking tab may be binding slightly, try slightly moving the T handle with a screwdriver blade to release tension on the lock.  When it's open check the spring and the retaining clip.  If you have to use some kind of lubricant try to use a dry lube spray, some popular sprays like WD 40 can attract dirt and get gummy, causing problems like this.... someone else may have other suggestions if these don't work!

[kyle0050]

Yea that's what is happening the t-handle won't pop out when the key is on. I can turn the key in and all but doesn't pop. So what would your best solution be?

[AZVendor]

Pliers like I said and after it's open then figure out what's wrong with it.

[kyle0050]

Pulled a little with pliers and it popped thank God. I just twisted it wayyy to tight. Thanks for the help guys.

[AngryChris]

On some machines, USI models especially, I find that the t-handles seem to have issues over time.  

 

I have two solutions depending on whether these are snack machines or soda machines.  For snack machines with T-handles that only require a 1/4 turn (most older snack machines with T-handles, especially USI 3015 and similar models), I kind of hit the lock a little with my fist (not too hard) just to "break it loose" before I try to twist the lock.  Sometimes, what happens is the friction alone between the t-handle and the metal piece it sits inside of is too difficult to overcome without really pulling hard on the lock which could damage your key or your lock.  Simply giving it a good smack will often make it much much easier to pull the t-handle out.

 

On soda machines, I make sure not to overtighten the t-handle.  Again, some USI machines are notorious for getting too difficult to LOOSEN once over-tightened.  I tighten enough so you cannot push the door any further, but not so tight that I strain my hand either.  I usually tighten until the t-handle is JUST past where it needs to be, then I back it off a little bit so the t-handle sits perfectly when locked.  On top of that, I give some troublesome machines a little smack before I unlock them so break the seal as I mentioned with the snack machines.  It's a technique that takes one second to perform but it saves lots of headaches.  

I do want to brag a little here.  Since being in business for myself, I have NEVER had to replace a locking mechanism on a machine (unless it needed one when I bought it).  I have NEVER had to fix sagging doors.  I have NEVER had to drill out a lock.  I am sure some of that is luck, but I also believe a lot has to do with not slamming doors, not over-tightening locks, and using the methods mentioned to break the seals loose.