Reel Repair by Alan Tani

Welcome! => Beginner's Board => Topic started by: jgp12000 on August 01, 2026, 04:23:58 PM

Title: Metal cabinet stuck closed
Post by: jgp12000 on August 01, 2026, 04:23:58 PM
I got a metal cabinet from Sam's years ago, this a.m. I got something out & right before I closed it a duster handle fell forward last thing I saw :o

Now the key won't turn & is stuck closed. It has 2 opposing rods that go up/down into holes top/bottom to lock it.Its always something...

Its been years since I put it together the hinges  are hidden so
Next on the list.
Title: Re: Metal cabinet stuck closed
Post by: Alan M on August 01, 2026, 05:08:48 PM
Are you able to tilt it backwards?, shake it to move the handle?
Title: Re: Metal cabinet stuck closed
Post by: foakes on August 01, 2026, 05:42:36 PM
If you lay it down on its backside, then graphite the lock mechanism, then by shaking the cabinet as you try to unlock it —- whatever (duster handle likely) is jamming the locking upper and lower bars —- should come loose.

Best, Fred
Title: Re: Metal cabinet stuck closed
Post by: Keta on August 01, 2026, 05:49:54 PM
Tovex works.... ;D
Title: Re: Metal cabinet stuck closed
Post by: jgp12000 on August 01, 2026, 05:49:59 PM
This thing is slap full including a  parts organizer full of screws that will go everywhere if I could lay it down

Its no telling how much it weighs
Definitely a 2 man lift ;D

I might can tilt it some or slide a
Slim jim between the doors to push the handle out of the way?
Title: Re: Metal cabinet stuck closed
Post by: Alan M on August 01, 2026, 06:23:43 PM
I have seen tip overs, sawzaws.

A wrench in my tool box, blocking a drawer, I was able to tile and shake.
Title: Re: Metal cabinet stuck closed
Post by: oldmanjoe on August 01, 2026, 06:46:36 PM
 I would try thumping it with hand to bounce the stick loose and at the same time giggle the key back and forth .    Worst case is to drill a hole in the finger hold under the lock and use a screwdriver or such to push the stick if it is jammed in there .
Title: Re: Metal cabinet stuck closed
Post by: ExcessiveAngler on August 02, 2026, 12:17:15 AM
Can you roll it out away from the wall? Do believe those back panels are just screwed in the from the outside. 
Title: Re: Metal cabinet stuck closed
Post by: foakes on August 02, 2026, 12:32:34 AM
Worst case, just roll it out and cut a hole in the back so you can reach in and free up the jammed rods.

You can always cover the back with a piece of scrap —- then just pop-rivet it in place.

Best, Fred
Title: Re: Metal cabinet stuck closed
Post by: PacRat on August 02, 2026, 01:00:16 AM
Their website has good assembly instructions. Match your model number, then figure out the least amount of disassembly to open it. 

https://files.elfsightcdn.com/1dc66879-82b0-43f4-b29a-b0cd089a9b1e/126383e3-2563-4f05-9576-a6c3d7625e24/UHD16236_Assembly_Instructions.pdf
Title: Re: Metal cabinet stuck closed
Post by: ExcessiveAngler on August 02, 2026, 01:05:46 AM
There's already holes in the back for cables. My buddy has the full set up.