Modify Schlage Deadbolt to Fit Small Bore

Follow these easy steps to make a Schlage Deadbolt work on a small bore hole.

Schlage deadbolts come with a metal cylindrical housing that adds some security to the lock, although most other brands of deadbolts do not have them. This housing is removable and the deadbolt will still function, but keep in mind that Schlage may not cover warranty issues on an item that is missing parts. We always recommend fixing your door preparation so that the lock can be used as intended for the best security. However, this is super easy to do and a possible solution for doors with a smaller bore.

The reason Schlage deadbolts won't work with a smaller bore hole is because they come with this cylindrical housing on them. This needs to be removed.

Remove the screw that attaches the plastic ring on the cylindrical housing to the deadbolt. Do not remove the screw that is furthur recessed into the deadbolt holding the key cylinder in place.

Once the screw is removed, twist the housing until the notch in the housing [A] aligns with the tab on the deadbolt [B]. Then remove the housing.

Now that you have the housing removed it will not interfere with the installation of your deadbolt.

That's It! Just a few simple steps to get these deadbolts to work. If you'd like to use another brand of deadbolt, you'll need to rebore your doors to be 2 1/8" diameter bore - see our enlarge your bore hole page to learn how to do this.