The patent pending Cap Popper is designed to "pop" off the clip-on spring retainer from pin tumbler locks in 10 seconds or less. This non-destructive opening method uses specially designed components to remove the clip-on spring caps from Schlage F51 and F51A Series Locks and pin tumbler lock cylinder-equipped Kwikset Deadbolt Locks. In addition to these three locks, the cap popper can be used on other locks equipped with clip-on spring retainers. Note: The Cap Popper cannot be used on the Kwikset/Tylo Entry Locks and similar products that have clip-on spring retainers with built-in security tabs to prevent removal.
The Cap Popper method uses a specially designed and configured wire that is used to extricate the clip-on spring retainer from the pin tumbler lock cylinder bible. Guide keys position the wire within the lock cylinder keyway. Pressure is exerted against the wire in order to lift off the clip-on spring retainer. A tool handle is used to control and place pressure on the wire.
After the clip-on spring retainer has been disengaged, the pin tumblers must be cleared from the lock cylinder shearline. To disengage the tumbler springs and top pins from the shearline, use the J-Hook or Shear Pin Lifter (included in the tool kit). Once cleared, the plug can be rotated. There is no permanent damage to the lock cylinder or lock.
After the lock has been unlocked and access gained, the lock can be disassembled; the pins and springs re-combinated into the lock cylinder; the cap installed and the lock reassembled.
Two Cap Popper Kits are available: the Basic Schlage F Series & Kwikset Deadbolt Kit - 5 Piece Combo Kit and the Schlage F Series and Kwikset - 6 Piece Combo Kit. The basic kit includes the Quick Cap Popper Wire Tool Handle, one length of special grade wire, the Kwikset and Schlage shaped wire guide keys, J-hook, and Shearline Pin Lifter. The J-Hook and the Shearline Pin Lifter are manufactured of tool steel. The knurled handles are manufactured from aircraft grade aluminum 3-1/2" long and approximately 3/4" in diameter and anodized to a high luster red finish.
The Schlage F Series and Kwikset - 6 Piece Combo Kit also contains a second Wire Tool Handle, a second length of special grade shaped wire and the Tail Piece Manipulator (TPM). The TPM is designed to unlock Schlage F Series Leversets by rotating the lock cylinder tailpiece to unlock the locking mechanism. To unlock, the tip of the TPM is slid beneath the outside rose and behind the lock cylinder into a slot roughly in line with the tailpiece. Once in position, moving the tool handle towards the lever rotates the tailpiece approximately 30 degrees, unlocking the locking mechanism. The Schlage F Series Lever Tailpiece Manipulator with a Wire Tool Handle is also sold separately. Note: All tools now come assembled with wire installed using stainless steel set screws.
Manufacturer’s Note: The Cap Popper tool will work on clip-on spring cap equipped Schlage F Series lock sets and the new Lever F -51A Levers. The TPM will not work on the new F-series 51A, released in October 2014.
For more information, contact your local locksmith distributor or Cap Popper, LLC, 602 Lynbrook St. NW, Palm Bay, FL 32907. Telephone: 321-914-4697. Web Site: www.cappopper.com
