How to Replace a Kwikset Deadbolt

How to Replace a Kwikset Deadbolt
Written By
David Young
David Young
Published: Jul 31, 2011
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

Things You Will Need

  • Phillips screwdriver
  • Flat screwdriver

You can remove the existing deadbolt in a few minutes, and installing the new one is just as easy.

  1. Open the door that has the Kwikset deadbolt installed on it.

  2. Remove the two retaining screws from the inside of the deadbolt with a Phillips screwdriver. Pull the thumb-turn off the door. Pull the outer cylinder and tailpiece out of the latch assembly.

  3. Remove the screws holding the latch assembly to the edge of the door. Pull the latch assembly out of the latch-hole.

  4. Insert the new latch into the latch-hole with the arrow on the side of the latch pointing up. Screw the latch screws into the existing holes and tighten them securely. Turn the square hole in the latch assembly with a flat screwdriver to extend the latch-bolt.

  5. Turn the tailpiece on the new outer cylinder toward the edge of the door. Slide the tailpiece through the hole in the latch assembly and hold it in place.

  6. Turn the thumb-turn toward the edge of the door. Slide the hole in the back of the thumb-turn over the end of the tailpiece. Align the screw holes in the thumb-turn with the holes in the latch assembly.

  7. Insert the mounting screws and tighten them with a Phillips screwdriver.

Photo Credits

Thinkstock Images/Comstock/Getty Images

Thinkstock Images/Comstock/Getty Images

David Young

David Young has written for the website for the Save Darfur Coalition and is currently writing articles for various other websites. Young holds a Bachelor of Arts in philosophy from Western Carolina University.

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