Step 1 : Remove the Old Lock

Look at the base of the lock handle to determine if there are screws or push tabs. For screws use a Phillips head or small flat bladed screwdriver to remove them. If there's a slot at the base of the handle with push tabs, push in on the tabs to release the inside handle inside the room.

Then carefully slide the knob off its shaft. Next release the rose, which is a cover or faceplate held flat against the door. Use the screwdriver to remove the screws holding the faceplate. Repeat the process on the other side of the door removing the knob and faceplate. Then unscrew the reinforcing plate and lock assembly and pull it out of the hole. Remove the two screws holding the latch assembly to the edge of the door. Then pull the latch assembly out of the door.

Step 2 : Install the New Latch

Slide the new latch assembly into the hole in the edge of the door and check its fit. If the plate that rests against the edge of the door is larger than the old latch assembly, enlarge the mortise to accept the new latch assembly. Use a sharp pencil to trace around the new plate and then remove the excess wood with a chisel. The plate should lie flush with the edge of the door.

Insert the new latch mechanism into the edge of the door so that the angle of the latch bolt faces toward the doorframe. If the mounting holes in the plate of the new latch assembly are in a different location than the old latch assembly, drill pilot holes for the mounting screws. Tighten them with a screwdriver.

If the new screw holes are drilled close to the old holes, fill the old holes with a wooden matchstick dipped into wood glue. Insert the match into the hole and break the matchstick off flush with the edge of the door.

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