Accessing your valuables in a Sentry safe is only possible if you have the correct code. However, if you’ve lost or forgotten your code, don’t panic! Changing the code on a Sentry safe is a simple process that can be completed in a few minutes. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps on how to change the code on your Sentry safe, ensuring the security of your belongings.
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools: a flathead screwdriver, a pen or pencil, and your new combination. Begin by locating the reset button inside the safe. It is typically found on the back wall or door frame. Use the flathead screwdriver to press and hold the reset button as you open the safe door. This action disengages the locking mechanism, allowing you to change the code.
Next, locate the change keyhole on the inside of the door. Insert the change key and turn it counterclockwise to unlock the code change mechanism. Keep the change key turned while you use the pen or pencil to rotate the combination dials to your desired new combination. Once the new combination is set, release the change key and press the reset button again. This will lock the new code in place. Close the safe door to complete the process. Remember to keep your new combination confidential for the continued security of your belongings.
Gathering Necessary Tools
Before embarking on the process of changing the code on your Sentry safe, it is crucial to gather all the necessary tools to ensure a smooth and efficient experience. These tools are essential for unlocking the safe and modifying its internal settings:
1. Key or Combination
The most important tool for accessing your Sentry safe is the correct key or combination. If you have lost or forgotten the combination, it is highly recommended that you contact Sentry customer service for assistance. They can provide you with instructions on how to reset the combination or obtain a replacement key.
Depending on your safe model, you may need a traditional metal key or an electronic combination keypad. Ensure that you have the correct key or combination readily available before proceeding.
Key Features:
- Traditional Key: A physical key that fits into a lock on the safe door.
- Electronic Combination: A digital keypad that allows you to enter a number code to unlock the safe.
2. Screwdriver
You will need a screwdriver to remove the cover plate that conceals the electronic components inside the safe. Most Sentry safes require a Phillips head screwdriver, but some older models may have a different type of screw.
Key Features:
- Phillips Head Screwdriver: A screwdriver with a cross-shaped tip that fits into Phillips head screws.
- Flat Head Screwdriver: A screwdriver with a flat tip that fits into flat head screws.
3. Flashlight or Work Light
Since the interior of the safe is often dark, it is helpful to have a flashlight or work light to illuminate the electronic components. This will make it easier to identify the wires and terminals that need to be modified.
Key Features:
- Flashlight: A portable light source that emits a beam of light.
- Work Light: A portable light source that provides general illumination.
Preparing the Sentry Safe
To ensure a successful code change on your Sentry safe, proper preparation is essential. Gather the following materials:
- Master reset code (if available)
- Safe key
- Phillips-head screwdriver
- Small flashlight
Securely position the safe on a flat, stable surface where you have ample space to maneuver.
Resetting the Lock Mechanism
- Unlock the safe using your key and open the door.
- Locate the reset button inside the safe. It is typically situated on the door jamb, opposite the hinges. Push the button firmly until you hear a click. This action resets the lock mechanism.
- If the safe is equipped with a master reset code, enter it at the keypad. This will override the existing code and reset the lock to its default factory settings.
Removing the Indicator Disc
To remove the indicator disc, first, locate the small hole on the bottom of the disc. Insert a small screwdriver or paperclip into the hole and gently pry the disc off. Once the disc is removed, you will see the combination lock mechanism.
Removing the Combination Lock
1. Locate the two small screws on either side of the lock. Remove these screws using a Phillips head screwdriver.
2. Once the screws are removed, carefully pull the lock straight out of the safe.
3. Flip the lock over so that the back is facing up. You will see a series of small tumblers.
4. To change the combination, use a small screwdriver or paperclip to press down on each tumbler and turn it to the desired number. Refer to the following table for the number of steps:
| Tumbler | Steps to Rotate |
|---|---|
| 1 | 10 Steps Counterclockwise |
| 2 | 20 Steps Counterclockwise |
| 3 | 30 Steps Counterclockwise |
| 4 | 40 Steps Counterclockwise |
| 5 | 50 Steps Counterclockwise |
| 6 | 60 Steps Counterclockwise |
| 7 | 70 Steps Counterclockwise |
| 8 | 80 Steps Counterclockwise |
| 9 | 90 Steps Counterclockwise |
| 0 | 100 Steps Clockwise |
Once you have entered the new combination, press down on the small knob on the side of the lock to engage the tumblers.
5. Insert the lock back into the safe and tighten the screws.
Aligning the Dial
1. To begin aligning the dial, open the safe door and look for the small hole located next to the dial. Insert the alignment tool or a thin object, such as a paperclip, into the hole.
2. Turn the dial clockwise until the first number on the dial (usually “0”) aligns with the indicator mark. Ensure that the alignment tool is inserted fully into the hole to ensure proper alignment.
3. Keep the dial aligned while you insert the key into the keyhole. Turn the key to the right to unlock the safe.
4. Once the safe is unlocked, turn the dial further clockwise until the second number on the dial (usually “1”) aligns with the indicator mark. This will disengage the alignment mechanism.
5. To ensure accuracy during the alignment process, pay close attention to the following details:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Dial alignment | Align the dial numbers precisely with the indicator mark. Ensure that the alignment tool is fully inserted into the hole. |
| Key insertion | Insert the key into the keyhole while maintaining the dial alignment. Turn the key smoothly to unlock the safe. |
| Dial rotation | After unlocking, rotate the dial further clockwise until the second number aligns with the indicator mark. This disengages the alignment mechanism. |
Setting the New Combination
To set a new combination, follow these steps:
- Open the safe using the current combination.
- Locate the reset button on the inside of the door, typically behind the lock.
- Press and hold the reset button while turning the dial to the right.
- Release the reset button and turn the dial to the left to set the first number of the new combination.
- Press and hold the reset button again and turn the dial to the left to set the second number of the new combination.
- Repeat step 5 for the third and fourth numbers of the new combination.
- Turn the dial to the right to lock the safe with the new combination.
Here is a table summarizing the steps to set a new combination:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Open the safe using the current combination. |
| 2 | Locate the reset button on the inside of the door. |
| 3 | Press and hold the reset button while turning the dial to the right. |
| 4 | Release the reset button and turn the dial to the left to set the first number of the new combination. |
| 5 | Press and hold the reset button again and turn the dial to the left to set the second number of the new combination. |
| 6 | Repeat step 5 for the third and fourth numbers of the new combination.
To ensure a secure combination, avoid using numbers that are easy to guess, such as birthdates, addresses, or phone numbers. |
| 7 | Turn the dial to the right to lock the safe with the new combination. |
Replacing the Indicator Disc
The indicator disc is a plastic disc located on the outside of the safe. It features numbers and hash marks that align with the dials. If the indicator disc becomes damaged or misaligned, it can interfere with the proper functioning of the safe. Here’s how to replace the indicator disc:
- Open the safe and remove the front cover.
- Locate the indicator disc and remove the screws holding it in place.
- Disconnect the wire(s) attached to the indicator disc.
- Remove the old indicator disc and replace it with the new one.
- Reattach the wire(s) to the new indicator disc.
- Secure the new indicator disc in place with the screws.
- Test the new indicator disc by turning the dials and verifying that it aligns properly with the numbers and hash marks.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Disconnect the battery. |
| 2 | Remove the door panel. |
| 3 | Remove the bolt assembly. |
| 4 | Remove the lock assembly. |
| 5 | Replace the lock mechanism. |
| 6 | Reassemble the safe. |
Verifying the New Combination
Now that you have changed the combination, it’s essential to verify that it works. Here are the detailed steps for verifying the new combination:
1. Close the safe door and leave it unlocked.
2. Turn the dial counterclockwise twice past the first number of your new combination.
3. Turn the dial clockwise one full turn past the second number of your new combination.
4. Turn the dial counterclockwise past the third number of your new combination and stop directly on it.
5. Pull the handle to open the safe.
If the safe opens, the new combination has been set successfully. If the safe doesn’t open, repeat steps 2 through 4 and ensure you are turning the dial in the correct direction and stopping directly on the numbers.
To further verify the new combination, try opening and closing the safe several times. If it consistently opens using the new combination, you can be confident that it has been changed successfully.
Open the Door
Locate the small reset button on the back of the safe’s housing. Insert a paperclip or small tool into the hole and press the button. While holding the button down, enter the new code on the keypad.
Reset the Combination
If you’ve forgotten the code, you’ll need to reset the combination. To do this, locate the two small screws on the back of the safe’s keypad. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws and pull off the keypad.
Identify the Programming Button
Once the keypad is removed, you’ll see a small button labeled “PROG.” Press and hold the PROG button while entering the new code on the keypad.
Confirm the New Code
Once you’ve entered the new code, press the “Enter” button to confirm it. The new code will now be set.
Reattach the Keypad
Replace the keypad by aligning it with the slots on the safe’s housing. Screw in the two screws to secure the keypad.
Test the New Code
Enter the new code on the keypad to verify that it works. If the door opens, the new code has been successfully set.
Additional Tips for a Smooth Process
Check the Batteries
Make sure the batteries in the keypad are fresh, as low batteries can cause the safe to malfunction.
Insert the Code Slowly
When entering the code, press the keys slowly and deliberately to ensure accuracy.
Test the Code Multiple Times
Once you’ve changed the code, test it several times to confirm that it works consistently.
Write Down the New Code
Keep a record of the new code in a secure location in case you forget it in the future.
Contact a Professional if Needed
If you encounter any difficulties changing the code, do not hesitate to contact a qualified locksmith or safe technician for assistance.
Safety Precautions and Considerations
When handling your Sentry safe, it is crucial to take appropriate safety precautions to ensure your safety and the integrity of the safe.
1. Proper Handling: Always lift the safe using a dolly or hand truck. Never attempt to lift it alone or drag it across the floor.
2. Prevent Skin Contact: Avoid prolonged skin contact with the safe’s metal surfaces, as they can lead to irritation or metal poisoning.
3. Keep Away from Children: Ensure that children are kept away from the safe’s lock mechanism and sharp edges to prevent accidents.
4. Avoid Humidity: Avoid storing the safe in areas with excessive humidity, as this can cause damage to the lock mechanism and contents.
5. Keep it Dry: Protect the safe from water and other liquids, as they can damage the electrical components and cause corrosion.
6. Proper Ventilation: If the safe is stored in a confined space, ensure adequate ventilation to prevent moisture buildup.
7. Safe Location: Place the safe in a secure location that is not easily accessible or visible to potential thieves.
8. Anchor it Securely: Anchor the safe to the floor or wall using the provided bolts to prevent it from being moved or stolen.
9. Regular Maintenance: Regularly inspect the safe for any signs of damage or wear and tear. If any issues are found, contact a qualified locksmith for repairs.
10. Remember Your Code: It is crucial to memorize your code and avoid writing it down or storing it electronically. If you forget the code, it may be necessary to reset the safe, which can be time-consuming and potentially expensive.
How To Change Code On Sentry Safe
Sentry safes are known for their high level of security and durability. They are often used to store valuable items such as jewelry, money, and important documents. In order to ensure the safety of your belongings, it is important to change the code on your Sentry safe regularly. Here are the steps on how to change the code on a Sentry safe:
1.
Open the safe door and locate the reset button. The reset button is usually located on the inside of the door, near the handle.
2.
Press and hold the reset button for 3 seconds. The safe will beep once, and the red LED light will start flashing.
3.
Enter the new code. The new code must be between 3 and 8 digits long. Once you have entered the new code, press the enter button.
4.
The safe will beep twice, and the green LED light will turn on. This indicates that the code has been successfully changed.
5.
Close the safe door and test the new code to make sure it works.
People Also Ask
How do I reset my Sentry safe if I forgot the code?
If you have forgotten the code to your Sentry safe, you can reset it using the following steps:
1.
Open the safe door using the override key.
2.
Locate the reset button on the inside of the door, near the handle.
3.
Press and hold the reset button for 3 seconds. The safe will beep once, and the red LED light will start flashing.
4.
Enter the new code. The new code must be between 3 and 8 digits long. Once you have entered the new code, press the enter button.
5.
The safe will beep twice, and the green LED light will turn on. This indicates that the code has been successfully changed.
6.
Close the safe door and test the new code to make sure it works.
How do I change the battery in my Sentry safe?
To change the battery in your Sentry safe, you will need a new 9-volt battery. Here are the steps on how to change the battery:
1.
Open the safe door.
2.
Locate the battery compartment on the inside of the door, near the handle.
3.
Remove the old battery and insert the new battery into the compartment.
4.
Close the battery compartment door.
5.
Close the safe door and test the keypad to make sure it works.
How do I open my Sentry safe if the keypad is not working?
If the keypad on your Sentry safe is not working, you can open the safe using the override key. Here are the steps on how to open the safe using the override key:
1.
Insert the override key into the keyhole on the bottom of the safe door.
2.
Turn the key to the right and pull on the door to open it.
3.
Once the safe is open, you can replace the keypad by following the steps in the user manual.
