Rekeying a Schlage 6-Pin Key: Step-by-Step Guide
By Yale Locks | Official Online Store | Yale Home | Published: 2026-10-21
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to rekey a Schlage lock using a 6-pin key. This guide walks you through the process, including removing the cylinder, swapping pins, and testing the new key.
Quick answer
Rekeying a Schlage lock with a 6-pin key involves removing the cylinder, swapping the pin stack, and reassembling the lock. You can do this yourself with the right tools and patience.
What you need to know before starting
Rekeying changes the lock so an old key no longer works. This is useful after a move, lost key, or to match multiple locks to one key. The Schlage 6 Pin Key is a mechanical accessory designed for this purpose.
You’ll need the lock’s current key, the new key you want to use, and a small tool like a paperclip or rekeying tool. Work on a clean, well-lit surface to avoid losing tiny pins.
Not all locks are rekeyable. Check that your lock uses a removable cylinder—most Schlage models do. If the cylinder is fixed, you may need a replacement lock instead.
Step-by-step rekeying process
- Remove the lock cylinder: Insert the current key and turn it slightly to the 'remove' position (usually 90 degrees). Use a paperclip or tool to depress the retaining pin or tab, then pull the cylinder out. Some Schlage models require unscrewing a faceplate first. If the cylinder won't budge, you may not have turned the key far enough. Try a full 90-degree turn in either direction.
- Extract the pin stack: Place the cylinder on a flat surface. Locate the small pins inside the keyway—they are usually spring-loaded. Use your tool to carefully lift and remove each pin, noting their order and position (top and bottom). Lay them out on a labeled surface. Mixing up the pin order will prevent the new key from working. Use a tray or paper to keep them sorted.
- Insert the new key and set new pins: Insert the Schlage 6 Pin Key into the cylinder. Working one pin at a time, place the new pins (from a rekeying kit) into the keyway, matching the cuts on the key. Ensure each pin sits flush with the cylinder surface. Use your tool to press them into place. If a pin doesn't seat fully, it may be the wrong size. Most kits include multiple pin sizes—try a different one.
- Reassemble and test the lock: Slide the cylinder back into the lock body, aligning the retaining pin with the slot. Insert the new key and turn it to the locked and unlocked positions. The key should turn smoothly without resistance. Test the old key—it should not work. If the new key sticks or the old key still works, the pin stack is incorrect. Disassemble and recheck the pin order and sizes.
Product facts
- Schlage 6 Pin Key: The Schlage 6 Pin Key is a Yale accessory in the Accessory category, offered here in an Entry function with Mechanical technology and a Satin Nickel finish. This key is designed for rekeying Schlage locks, so you can change the lock's key without replacing the entire lock.
Schlage 6 Pin Key
