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Mills War Eagle no key can't open the back door

PostPosted: Wed May 16, 2018 9:56 am
by inobmaz
Just purchased my first antique slot 1931 25 cent War Eagle. I can't access the cabinet to assess the internal components. My first instinct to to drill out the lock. However, some more seasoned collectors have encouraged me not to do it. From my research here are my options:

1. Break the escalator glass hope the lock is accessible to unscrew
2. Somehow access through the cabinet
3. Locksmith (if you have recommendations I am In the Kansas City area)
4. Drill out the lock buy a replacement

Attached are photos. Your feedback helped me tremendously on my last restoration. I look forward to your input.

Thanks

Kelly

Re: Mills War Eagle no key can't open the back door

PostPosted: Wed May 16, 2018 12:10 pm
by cabinetguy
I like the idea of splitting the the wood base.It's easy to reglue after you get the back off.You might be able to find a key or have Dave rekey the original lock

Re: Mills War Eagle no key can't open the back door

PostPosted: Wed May 16, 2018 1:44 pm
by inobmaz
I like the idea as well. Don't feel like drilling or breaking glass.

Re: Mills War Eagle no key can't open the back door

PostPosted: Wed May 16, 2018 2:55 pm
by radiorich123
Grind off the 4 rivets on the top of the back door bar. Then pry it off near the top of the lock.

Rich

Re: Mills War Eagle no key can't open the back door

PostPosted: Thu May 17, 2018 5:22 am
by gsx11r
Hello
Just if you are Lucky , but only if you are really Lucky ,you can try this !!
On back of the front casting , you have this screw ,for keep the two casting together .
Front casting screw.jpg


Sometime the screw is too tight but sometime it s loose !!
So ,As I say ,if you are Lucky , you can drill the 4 screw head of the top casting on each side ,and when the head go away , just push the screw Inside .
Front casting screw side.jpg


As this and only if the screw Inside is loose , you can remove the front casting , and magic , you can remove the lock screw also !!
Or maybe just be able to move the front casting for have acces to the lock screws !
Whatever, You can test, it s just 4 screws to destroy !
:D
Be careful and Let me know if you are Lucky !
Stephane