Key Snapped in Mobella Lock

[Eds-Therapy]

I have recently snapped the key inside a Mobella lock on my boat. Fortunately the lock is in the open position. I tried to retrieve the broken end with fish hook barb, coping saw blade...etc with no avail. I think it would be cheaper to replace the Mobella lock (~$45), then hire a locksmith to fix it. Has anyone replaced the Mobella lock on their boat? I can not find out how it is attached to the companionway washboard. The Mobella lock is part # MG-01-110-50. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks!

 

[kloudie1]

Looks like it snaps into a precisely machined opening and can be wedged out ??
http://www.onmar.se/pub_docs/files/produktinfo/secure.pdf

 

[Eds-Therapy]

It looks like it does just snap in. I tried somewhat to remove it yesterday and I didn't want to force it and break the Plexiglas. I will try again this weekend again.

 

[Captain Ron 18]

IMHO, I'd call a locksmith. They are fully equipped to handle such an issue, but don't know if that would be insured or not - depends on your policy.

 

[kloudie1]

Super Glue on the tip of a shaped tongue depressor (or similar thin stiff thingie)? stick it to the end of the key that ya can see.. then gently pull it out.

 

[py26129]

If you still have the broken end of the key, that would make a great carrier for the superglue.

 

[Bosman]

The teeth visible in the opening from the inside of the boat are spring loaded and push out to spread "retaining" tabs. I you insert two small screwdrivers and move the teeth inwards you will be able to pull the lock assembly upwards.

 

[Jake N Eggs]

As Bosman said but if you use a Phillips screw driver between the two racks when you rotate the screw driver it pulls both locking tabs in at the same time. If I remember correctly it comes out the top.

 

[Bosman]

use a Phillips screw driver between the two racks when you rotate the screw driver it pulls both locking tabs in at the same time.

That should certainly work as well - very good idea!

 

[Ron20324]

will a magnet grab the key, but not the lock?

 

[Eds-Therapy]

I will try those tabs with the screwdriver. Thank you so much for the advice.

 

[Eds-Therapy]

Ron, The key seems pretty stuck in there, I am not sure if the pins are holding it in place or not. I tried a bunch of things that I found on youtube. Seems that the lock replacement would be the easiest at this time. I am sure a locksmith would be more than $45.

 

[Captain Ron 18]

Just saw your pix on my computer rather than my phone, and it's clearly pretty far in there. I wonder if contacting the company might shed any light if that's an option?

 

[jkaisler]

Thanks to ALL who answered this initial problem. Just had the same thing happen to me today. Will try to implement suggestions posted here! Great Work!

 

[agprice22]

It probably needs some lube , which would defeat any application of superglue.

 

[SEMPERAVANTI41]

I would try spraying the broken key with WD-40, then a strong Shop Vac sucking on the key side while tapping on the back of the lock.

 

[LloydB]

step #1 superglue step #2 nitro. IMHO

 

[Capt jgw]

A dental pick might be able to pull it out. Basically what the locksmith would use. Harbor Freight sells them.
Problem with broken keys is if you turned it hard enough to break it, the stub is probably twisted in the bore jamming it in there. You have to get something in behind the first tumbler notch to pull it out.