Q&A for How to Open a Combination Lock

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Question

How do I open a multiple combination lock when I don't know the code?

Community Answer

Hold your thumb as hard as you can at the top. Go slowly through all the numbers and you will feel a click when it's the right number.

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Question

Do I have to turn it clockwise 3 times every time I use it or just the first time?

Community Answer

Do it every time.

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Question

What do I do if my combination lock won't open?

Community Answer

If you're at school, try it once or twice more. If it still doesn't open, ask a nearby teacher for help.

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Question

What do I do if a combination lock is stuck?

Community Answer

You may need to find assistance with your issue. You also might want to get a new lock.

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Question

What if the lock is an old suitcase lock?

Community Answer

Buy a new one or go to a local hardware shop and ask them for advice on how to unlock one.

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Question

How do I open my locker if the red marker line is at the bottom and the dial is facing the bottom also?

Community Answer

Try it as if it's facing the top.

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Question

How do I open a dial lock set on a new suitcase if there are no instructions?

Community Answer

The suitcase should come with an instructions sheet that tells you how to open the lock. If there isn't one, go back to the shop where you bought the suitcase, and the employees should be able to help you.

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Question

What do I do if I lost my locker combination?

Community Answer

Tell someone in your school's administration office; they'll either give you the combination on record or change it for you.

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Question

Are there any locks that will let you change the code? What if you forget the code and it is tricky, can you call the manufacturer on it or a locksmith?

Upnorth Here

Top Answerer

There are many locks that are designed so that a user (or security administrator) can change the combination. Some may need a tool or a key, some use a special position and sequence on the dial, and others use different shackle positions to reset and enter a new combination.

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Question

What should I do if the last number is bigger than the second number?

Upnorth Here

Top Answerer

It doesn't make any difference. The instructions are the same for any set of three numbers.

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Question

What if the last number on the combination lock is higher than the 2 number so what if it’s 28-18-24 how would you do it?

Upnorth Here

Top Answerer

Try: right 3 times to clear, then stop on 28, then left past 28 and stop at 18,then right past 18 and stop at 24.

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Question

My lock has 5 digit code. How to open?

Upnorth Here

Top Answerer

Do the same as for a 3-digit combo, but keep going for two more numbers before you try opening it. Clear, right, left, right, left, right, open.

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Question

How do I open an old lock when putting in the combination doesn't work?

Community Answer

Go to a professional locksmith. They should be able to help. If you know where the lock was bought, go there. If you know the last owner of the lock, ask them.

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Question

Do I have to turn the lock two or three times clockwise?

Community Answer

Three times clockwise. The reason you must do this, is because it resets the lock. Do this every time you mess up, or need to open it again.

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Question

What do I do if my combination lock isn't working and I can't get help?

Community Answer

Simply cut or break the lock with bolt cutters or 2 wrenches. Use the bolt cutters to cut the shackle (the U-shaped part), or use 2 wrenches to pry out or deform the shackle until it pops out of the lock.

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Question

What do I do if the first and second numbers are the same on my combination lock?

Community Answer

Do the same thing you would do if they were different numbers. Say the combination was 15-15-09. You would turn it clockwise until you get to the number 15 and then stop, turn it counterclockwise past the number 15 and keep turning until you get to it again, then turn clockwise to the number 9. Then pull on the lock and it should open.

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Question

Can I change the combination on my combination lock?

Community Answer

No you cannot. The lock will already have a code on it and you cannot change it if your school gave it to you or if you brought it in a store.

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