Introducing The Locking Point Manipulation Tool

Problems With Jammed Espag Locks

It can be a common problem. You need to replace a damaged part on a window or door but the mechanism has failed in the locked position and cannot easily be opened. An easy method is to try and manipulate any locking cams/rollers along the side of the mechanism, once you have enough of a gap along the edge to gain access to them  – a common method to achieve this is to remove the glazing unit or panel to allow you to manipulate the frame sufficiently. Anything from standard hex keys (aka Allen keys), screwdrivers and even bent wire coat hangers have been methods utilised in the past! We’ve now produced this purposefully designed Locking Point Manipulation tool to make the task of fixing jammed espag locks easier and much less hassle.

How To Use The Tool

Made of steel, this extended 4mm hex key provides increased reach and grip, making it easier to hook onto the locking point and free the gearing from its locked state. To use the tool, the small end is inserted into the air gap or aperture to locate the locking cam. Then with the knob attachment end, the locking mechanism can be opened with the appropriate amount of force on the locking cam.

The tool is thin enough to slide into narrow gaps and features long and short 90° turns on each end. The shorter end is ideal when you can only make a very tight gap between the sash and the frame to access. The longer end provides longer reach for more awkward gaps and distances to the mechanism, or improved grip. Each tool is supplied with two ergonomically selected knobs, which can be switched over or removed for various applications. The knobs allow for a better grip on the tool, especially if you are trying to manipulate a very stiff or rusted mechanism.

A Versatile Locksmith Tool With Many Applications

The tool can be used on a wide variety of doors and windows, for example, standard casement windows using espag mechanisms, windows which use shootbolt mechanisms, tilt & turn windows and even vertical sliding sash windows where the issue may be accessing damaged balance components/stuck mechanisms. The tools also work on door multipoint locks with roller or mushroom cams, tilt & slide doors and French doors fitted with multipoint locks or a variation of tilt & turn gearing etc. Pretty much any type of locking system that incorporates a locking cam!

These are not the only benefits of the tool as they have many secondary uses that include

• Manipulating flush bolts and shootbolts with damaged mechanisms.
• Clearing debris or fallen components inside the sash.
• Acting as a retrieval tool for small items dropped into hard-to-reach areas like drains or vents.

This is a perfect leverage tool for window repairs that every fitter should keep in their toolbox.