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Hi Guys

Has anyone got any other methods in particular or preferences of securing a upvc door temporarily when the lock gearbox has completly broken. 

Paul

Take the beds/glass/panel out and then use (4x) 4" or 5" screws (pre drilled) through the rebate where the panel or glass sits and screwed into the frame leg, then replace the glass/panel/beads handles and (cylinder wedged in place) temporarily until the replacement lock is fitted. This method doesn't damage the door face and the holes are covered by the new mechanism. 

I use a sharpened paint scraper to get a start on removing the beads, and a white rubber mallet can be good for replacing them without marks.

Cheers Martin T

But what about if the door still has to be used during the period while the lock is being ordered.  

Paul, usually if you order something before midday, most companies say It will be with you next day, but as it is b/h that rule is out of the window. Can the householders use a backdoor or may be a patio door till part arrives.

I normally carry some old gearboxes with different backsets that can be put in while you wait for the new mech. The door will still latch and lock, just make sure the customer is aware that it will not be as secure as with the full mech.

The obvious choice is an overnight lock (latch and deadbolt case only) which you can get in various backset sizes. I tend to carry a couple of each size on board just to cover any issues. You can't always use these for every type of mpl(ie fullex type a ) but will cover most 92 centres multipoints. Failing that, secure the door with a couple of Sashjammers top and bottom and advise the customer to use a back door for a couple of days, most people are to bothered with the inconvience..

Always handy to have a few of the most common gearboxes on board ie: Lockmasters, gu , Eras etc..

Link for overnight locks...

http://www.northwesthardware.co.uk/cat/Multipoint%20Door%20Locks/Overnight%20Door%20lock.html?id=hLPREB7r

have a look for ERA snaplacks, they come keyed or non keyed and can be left after the new lock has been fitted for extra security, or removed and the holes filled.