Bally 1982 25 cent slot machine - how to get key out

[dwtjan]

I just purchased a Bally 1982 slot machine. It came with two barrel keys and one flat one I believe is a reset key. We used the barrel key to open the front. But we cannot get the door to shut and lock or get the key out unless it is open. The locking mechanism works great when it is open. But trying to close it and turn the key to lock it, will not relatch totally, thereby ending up with not being able to lock the door. Perhaps it is not lining up just right but do not know how to make it work. Also, the flat key fits but does not seem to do anything. Could this be due to the door being open? I've read that it is a reset key but I have no clue how to reset it! I did not want to just plug the machine in before I researched what to do first. If I could get the door to close and remove the key, I would just plug it in to see what happens. Any suggestions re the door lock / key problem? Thanks everyone

[Bally Bill]

Hello,Without any pictures to confirm your issue it is likely the round hold down nut that holds the lock in place is loose and needs to be tightened and adjusted.

[dwtjan]

I'll definitely pay attention to this possibility. Thank you so much!

[radiorich123]

The door key has to move the meck all the way to lock. You have to adjust or file the door latches. Try to spray the insides of the locks with WD 40 and this will also help.

Rich

[dwtjan]

Thank you all so much! The suggestions to lift the door while pushing it in while turning the key WORKED!!!