Electronic Safe FYI

[larryw]

About 5 years ago I purchased an American Security gun safe with the S&G electronic mechanism (S&G has since been purchased by Stanley).

Last Friday the safe wouldn't open. I'd key the combo and hear the motor turning to open up, but no joy. New batteries didn't so it.

:banghead: ...well, that didn't help either...

So I call the local safe guy. He came out and worked on it for about two hours, finally getting it open without needing to drill it. It turns out that the S&G electronic mechanism uses a plastic nut on the steel rod to open the mechanism; this problem isn't uncommon with mechanisms from S&G.

He replaced the mechanism with a new one with all steel guts and told me if it *ever* breaks he'll come out and fix it free. He's been doing this for a long time, so my confort level is better.

Total bill, including the non-destructive opening: $325.

So, if you're like me and don't want to put on reading glasses to get to your guns and buy an electronic safe, make sure the mechanism has all steel guts and not plastic drives.

 

[BobSeaman]

safe

Can you post a pitcure or email me one

www.bobsbunker.com
SEPS EXERTUS, SEMPER FIDELIS, FRATER INFINITAS
("Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever")
Death Before Dishonor
Not as lean, not as mean, but still a Marine

 

[larryw]

Bad: http://www.amsecusa.com/electronic-locks-sargent-greenleaf.htm
Good: http://www.amsecusa.com/electronic-locks-lagard.htm

 

[BobSeaman]

safe

I meant the location of the part that you spoke of

 

[larryw]

It was inside the motor mechanism, located inside the door. The unit looked like the diagram shown on the "Good" lock and I could hear parts rattling around in the broken one as I tossed it into the garbage can.

 

[a1abdj]

That's an older S&G design, and their new line of locks operate differently.

Doesn't really matter though, as even modern day electronic locks are full of things that can potentially go wrong. I hope your locksmith lives a long time, as even your new lock will need to be replaced eventually.

One of the big advanatages of mechanical locks is that they can be serviced. Just like changing the oil in your car extends your engine's life, so does servicing your safe lock. Most electronic locks are sealed units and not servicable. As they wear they break, and you simply replace them.