BEST Key Combinator Service Manual T61804

User Manual: BEST Key Combinator Service Manual Service Manual

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SERVICE MANUAL

SERVICE MANUAL

CREDITS/COPYRIGHT
©

2001 Best Lock Corporation dba Best Access Systems. All rights reserved. Printed in
the United States of America.
Information in this document is subject to change without notice and does not
represent a commitment on the part of Best Access Systems. The software described in
this document are furnished under a license agreement or nondisclosure agreement.
This publication is intended to be an accurate description and set of instructions
pertaining to its subject matter. However, as with any publication of this complexity,
errors or omissions are possible. Please call your BEST distributor or Best Access
Systems at (317) 849-2250 if you see any errors or have any questions. No part of this
manual and/or databases may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any
means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or information
storage and retrieval systems, for any purpose, without the express written permission
of Best Access Systems.
This document is distributed as is, without warranty of any kind, either express or
implied, respecting the contents of this book, including but not limited to implied
warranties for the publication’s quality, performance, merchantability, or fitness for any
particular purpose. Neither Best Access Systems, nor its dealers or distributors shall be
liable to the user or any other person or entity with respect to any liability, loss, or
damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly by this publication.
The Life Safety Code is a registered trademark of the National Fire Protection
Association.
Written and designed by Best Access Systems and Avalon Group, Inc., Indianapolis,
Indiana.
T61804 Rev – 1837172 ER7991-6 October 2001

CONTENTS

FIGURES

V

GETTING STARTED 1–1
Introduction

1–1

Product family diagram
Documentation package

1–2
1–3

Technical support 1–3
Support services 1–3
Telephone and web technical support
Training seminars 1–3

PARTS

1–3

2–1

Exploded diagram of a key combinator—left hand
Exploded diagram of a key combinator—right hand

2–2
2–3

Key options 2–4
Standard key 2–4
Premium key 2–4
Patented key 2–4
Keyway options

Key Combinator Service Manual

2–5

iii

Contents

SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

3–1

Combinator handing 3–2
Left-handed vs. right-handed combinators

3–2

Maintenance tools 3–2
BEST tools 3–2
Additional tools 3–3
Cutting keys 3–4
Loading the key 3–4
Cutting the key 3–5
Unloading the key 3–6
Converting the combinator between the A2, A3, and A4 systems
Replacing the depth selector 3–7

3–7

Replacing parts 3–9
Replacing the punch and die 3–9
Replacing the key carriage 3–11
Replacing the operating lever 3–13
Calibrating the key combinator 3–16
Cutting a calibration key 3–16
Placing the key in the gauge 3–18
Reading the gauge 3–18
Totaling the measurement 3–19
Checking the measurement 3–19
Adjusting the depth selector 3–20
Adjusting the key clamp spring
Preventative maintenance

3–25

3–27

Cleaning parts 3–27
Cleaning the punch and die 3–27
Cleaning the key carriage 3–27
Lubricating parts 3–28
Guidelines for lubrication 3–28
Lubricating the key combinator housing
Troubleshooting

GLOSSARY

3–31

A–1

PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE
INDEX

iv

3–28

B–1

C–1

Key Combinator Service Manual

FIGURES

GETTING STARTED
Key combinator product family

1–2

PARTS
LH key combinator

2–2

RH key combinator

2–3

Standard key blank

2–4

Premium key blank

2–4

Patented key blank

2–4

SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
BEST maintenance tools
Loading a key

3–2

3–4

Key in the key clamp spring
Cutting a key

3–5

3–6

Removing the depth selector

3–7

Reinstalling the depth selector
Punch and die assembly

3–8

3–9

Inserting the punch into the T-slot
Removing the key carriage

3–10

3–11

Reinstalling the key carriage

3–12

Depressing the key carriage plungers
Removing the operating lever
Reinstalling the operating lever
Cutting a calibration key

Key Combinator Service Manual

3–13

3–14
3–15

3–17

v

Figures
Inserting a key into the key gauge
Calibration measurement scale

3–18
3–19

Marking the depth selector assembly
Loosening the spanner nut

3–20

3–21

Turning the depth adjuster counterclockwise
Turning the depth adjuster clockwise
Loading a key

3–23

3–25

Adjusting the key clamp spring
Lubricating parts

3–26

3–29

Lubricating the punch and die

vi

3–22

3–30

Key Combinator Service Manual

1

GETTING STARTED

INTRODUCTION
The Key Combinator Service Manual contains
essential information to help you maintain your BEST
key combinator.

Key Combinator Service Manual

1–1

Getting Started

PRODUCT FAMILY DIAGRAM

Spanner wrench
TE
ALIBRA

YSTE

M A2

Calibration gauge

Circlip pliers

UCTHIOPN
OINT
CAPIN

Key combinator
Chip tray
Premium key blank
Standard key blank
Patented key blank

Figure 1.1

1–2

Key combinator product family

Key Combinator Service Manual

Getting Started

DOCUMENTATION PACKAGE
The following documentation is available to help you with the
installation, operation, and maintenance of your BEST key combinator
along with associated service equipment. These documents also can be
ordered separately from the product.
Document Title

Doc. No.

Core and Key Service Manual

T35527

Operating Instructions for AD432 Key Combinator

T35531

Operating Instructions for AD433 Key Combinator

T35529

Operating Instructions for AD502 Micrometer Key Gauge

T35530

TECHNICAL SUPPORT
Support
services
Telephone and
web technical
support

When you have a problem with a BEST key combinator, your first
resource for help is the Key Combinator Service Manual. If you cannot
find a satisfactory answer, contact your local BEST Representative.
A factory-trained Certified Product Specialist (CPS) is available in your
area whenever you need help. Before you call, however, please make
sure that the product is in your immediate vicinity, and that you are
prepared to give the following information:
■
■

what happened and what you were doing when the problem arose
what you have done so far to correct the problem.

Best Access Systems Representatives provide telephone technical
support for key combinators and related products. You may locate the
representative nearest you by calling (317) 849-2250 Monday through
Friday, between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. eastern standard time; or visit
the web page, www.BestAccess.com.

Training
seminars

Best Access Systems regularly holds factory training seminars for
owners of BEST masterkey systems. Your BEST Representative may hold
regular seminars as well. Contact your representative for information on
these seminar opportunities.

Key Combinator Service Manual

1–3

Getting Started

1–4

Key Combinator Service Manual

2

PARTS

The following pages contain descriptions and figures
for the key combinator.

Key Combinator Service Manual

2–1

2–2

C70580
C70610
C70601

B70341
B70625

A70325
A70326
A70327

2
not shown
not shown

3
not shown

4
not shown
not shown

1
1
1

1
1

1
1
1

1

Depth selector assembly—A2
Depth selector assembly—A3
Depth selector assembly—A4

Punch and die assembly
Punch and die assembly for BEST/Peaks

Premium key carriage
Key carriage for BEST/Peaks—7-pin
Key carriage for BEST/Peaks—6-pin

Operating lever assembly

Figure 2.1

LH key combinator

1
2

† See page 3–7 for instructions on converting between the A2, A3, and
A4 Systems.

A70595

Part No. Qty. Description

1

Item†

EXPLODED DIAGRAM OF A KEY COMBINATOR—LEFT HAND

3

A

RAT
SYST
EM

CALIB

4

Parts

Key Combinator Service Manual

Key Combinator Service Manual

Figure 2.2

1

RH key combinator

M A2

ATE
ALIBR

YSTE

2

B70341
C70578
C70579
A70591

2
3
not shown
4

1

1
1

1

1
1
1

Operating lever assembly

Standard key carriage
Premium key carriage

Punch and die assembly

Depth selector assembly—A2
Depth selector assembly—A3
Depth selector assembly—A4

3

4

† See page 3–7 for instructions on converting between the A2, A3, and
A4 Systems.

C70322
C70323
C70324

Part No. Qty. Description

1
not shown
not shown

Item†

EXPLODED DIAGRAM OF A KEY COMBINATOR—RIGHT HAND

Parts

2–3

Parts

KEY OPTIONS
The following key options are offered by BEST. Refer to the Core and
Key Service Manual (T35527) for ordering information.

Standard key

Standard keys are cut by the AD433 key combinator.

Figure 2.3

Premium key

Premium keys are cut by the AD433P key combinator.

Figure 2.4

Patented key

Premium key blank

PEAKS patented keys are cut by the AD437 and AD436 key combinator.

Figure 2.5

2–4

Standard key blank

Patented key blank

Key Combinator Service Manual

Parts

KEYWAY OPTIONS
The following section lists BEST keyways and the combinators that
must be used to cut the keys.
Note: BEST key combinators are available only to registered BEST
customers who currently have the A2, A3, or A4 masterkey system. For
more information, contact your local BEST Representative.

Standard keyways
All standard keyways require a RH configuration for the key
combinator.

Premium keyways
Some premium keyways require a LH configuration for the key
combinator and some require a RH configuration. See the table below.
Configuration

Keyway

RH

WA
WB
WC
WG
WH
WK
WY

LH

WD
WE

Patented keyways
All patented keyways require a LH configuration. The B1 and B2
keyways are the only Peaks keyways available to use with the AD437
and AD436 key combinators.

Key Combinator Service Manual

2–5

Parts

2–6

Key Combinator Service Manual

3

SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

This chapter contains instructions for servicing and
maintaining key combinator components, and a
section for troubleshooting common problems.

To

See
page

Understand combinator handing

3–2

Look at maintenance tools

3–2

Cut keys

3–4

Convert your combinator between A2,
A3, and A4 systems

3–7

Replace the punch and die

3–9

Replace the key carriage

3–11

Replace the operating lever

3–13

Calibrate the key combinator

3–16

Adjust the key clamp spring

3–25

Create a preventative maintenance plan 3–27

Key Combinator Service Manual

Clean the punch and die

3–27

Clean the key carriage

3–27

Lubricate parts

3–28

Troubleshoot common problems

3–31

3–1

Service and Maintenance

COMBINATOR HANDING
Left-handed vs.
right-handed
combinators

The terms “left-handed” and “right-handed” describe the handing of a
combinator, but this is not a convenience feature for left-handed or
right-handed individuals. The handing on a combinator is distinguished
by the position of its operating lever. The operating lever position
determines which types of keys the combinator can cut.

Left-handed key combinator
When facing the combinator, the operating handle is attached to the
left side of the left-handed or LH key combinator. A LH key combinator
cuts patented or left-handed premium keys. It does not cut standard
keys.

Right-handed key combinator
When facing the combinator, the operating handle is attached to the
right side of the right-handed or RH key combinator. A RH key
combinator cuts premium or right-handed standard keys. It does not cut
patented keys.
To determine which keys are appropriate for your security needs,
contact your BEST Representative. See page 2–5 for more information
on key combinators and their keyway types.

MAINTENANCE TOOLS
BEST tools

The following tools are provided by BEST for servicing your key
combinator.

1

Figure 3.1

2

3

BEST maintenance tools

Maintenance tools parts list

3–2

Item

Nomenclature Part No.

1
not shown

AD502
B70564
AD502D B70574

1
1

Key calibration gauge—standard
Key calibration gauge—digital

2

A70558

1

Spanner wrench

3

HT03009

1

Circlip pliers

Qty. Description

Key Combinator Service Manual

Service and Maintenance

Additional tools

The following Allen wrenches are used for servicing your key
combinator:
■ 3/32″
■ 7/64″
■ 1/8″
■ 9/64″
■ 5/32″
■ 3/16″.

Key Combinator Service Manual

3–3

Service and Maintenance

CUTTING KEYS
BEST recommends that you secure your key combinator to a flat surface
before you begin cutting keys. You can install bolts either through each
of the rubber feet or through two holes on the base of the combinator.
Contact BEST for further instructions.

Loading the key

To load a BEST standard key blank:
1. Gripping the key clamp knob, pull the key carriage completely
forward.
2. Turn the key clamp knob counterclockwise to open the key clamp
spring (for left-handed combinators, turn the key clamp knob
clockwise). See Figure 3.2.

Locating surface
Key opening
E

RAT

ALIB

Key
carriage

A2
EM
YST

Key clamp
knob

Front view of combinator

Figure 3.2

Loading a key
3. With the curved edge of the key blank against the locating surface,
slide the key blank into the key opening. Make sure that the knife
edge of the key clamp spring fits into the groove of the key. See
Figure 3.3.

3–4

Key Combinator Service Manual

Service and Maintenance
4. Turn the key clamp knob clockwise, locking the key blank into the
key carriage (for left-handed combinators, turn the key clamp knob
counterclockwise).
The key clamp knob hangs loosely in the six o’clock position, as
shown in Figure 3.3

Key clamp spring
Knife edge
E

RAT

ALIB

Groove of key
Key carriage

A2
EM
YST

Key clamp knob in
6 o’clock position

Front view of combinator

Figure 3.3

Key in the key clamp spring

Cutting the key

To cut a BEST standard key blank:
1. Before your begin to cut keys, make sure that the key carriage is still
completely forward.
2. Move the depth selector lever to the “0” mark for the setup stroke.
3. Pull the operating lever down firmly until it strikes the rubber
bumper; then, let the operating lever move back up.
Failure to strike the rubber bumper may cause the key carriage to
move to the next space too soon.

Caution

Caution

The combinator automatically moves the key carriage and key blank
into place for the first keycut.
Do not touch the key carriage during key cutting. The combinator
precisely advances the key carriage with each stroke of the operating
lever.

Key Combinator Service Manual

3–5

Service and Maintenance

Caution

4. Move the depth selector dial to the keycut depth number that you
need for your key. See Figure 3.4.
Be sure to let go of the depth selector before making a cut. Any
pressure placed on the depth selector dial can cause the key to be cut
incorrectly.

Operating
lever
Depth selector
dial

Depth selector
assembly

ATE
ALIBR

M A2

YSTE

Rubber
bumper

Figure 3.4

Cutting a key

5. Pull the operating lever down firmly until it strikes the rubber
bumper; then, let the operating lever move back up.
The combinator makes the first cut and automatically moves the key
carriage and key blank into place for the next cut.
6. Repeat Steps 3 and 4 until you have made all of the cuts on the key.

Unloading the
key

3–6

To unload a BEST standard key:
1. Gripping the key clamp knob, pull the key carriage completely
forward.
2. Turn the key clamp knob counterclockwise to open the key clamp
spring (for left-handed combinators, turn the key clamp knob
clockwise).
3. Slide the key out.

Key Combinator Service Manual

Service and Maintenance

CONVERTING THE COMBINATOR BETWEEN THE A2, A3, AND A4 SYSTEMS
The BEST AD433 key combinator gives you the ability to change from
one masterkey system to another by replacing the depth selector. For
example, you may want to change from an A2 System to an A4 System.

Replacing the
depth selector

To remove the depth selector:
1. Using a 5/32″ Allen wrench, unscrew the two socket head machine
screws that secure the depth selector to the side of the combinator.
See Figure 3.5.
2. Remove the depth selector. Save the screws.

Depth selector
assembly

ALIBR

ATE

M A2

YSTE

Socket head
screws

Figure 3.5

Key Combinator Service Manual

Removing the depth selector

3–7

Service and Maintenance

To reinstall the depth selector:
1. Turn the dial on the depth selector assembly to the “0” mark.
2. Align the two holes on the bottom of the depth selector assembly
with the threaded holes on the combinator. See Figure 3.6.

Depth selector
assembly

ALIB

RATE

M A2
YSTE

Socket head screws

Figure 3.6

Reinstalling the depth selector
3. Insert two 5/32″ socket head machine screws through the holes and
tighten them with a 5/32″ Allen wrench.
4. Calibrate a key to make sure the new depth selector assembly is
properly installed (page 3–16).

3–8

Key Combinator Service Manual

Service and Maintenance

REPLACING PARTS
Replacing the
punch and die

To remove the punch and die:
1. Make sure that the operating lever is in the upright position.
2. Remove the depth selector (page 3–7). Save all of the parts.
3. Remove the punch and die assembly. See Figure 3.7.
Note: The spring that sits below the punch and die assembly can pop

out during removal.

Punch

Die assembly
Spring

Side view of combinator

Figure 3.7

Punch and die assembly

Key Combinator Service Manual

3–9

Service and Maintenance

To reinstall the punch and die:
1. Make sure that the spring is resting in the space between the guide
rails.
2. Assemble the punch so that it sits in the die as shown in Figure 3.8.
3. Lightly lubricate both sides of the die (page 3–30).
4. While making sure that the punch does not extend below the
bottom of the die, insert the die into the slots of the guide rail.
5. Place the top of the punch into the T-slot of the punch guide rail.
See Figure 3.8.
6. Reinstall the depth selector (page 3–8).
7. Calibrate a key to make sure that the new punch and die assembly is
installed properly (page 3–16).

T-slot

Punch

Die assembly
Spring

Side view of combinator

Figure 3.8

3–10

Inserting the punch into the T-slot

Key Combinator Service Manual

Service and Maintenance

Replacing the
key carriage

To perform any service to the key carriage, the operating lever must be
in the upright position.

To remove the key carriage:
1. Using a 1/8″ Allen wrench, unscrew the two fastener screws at the
rear of the key carriage. Remove the rear stop plate from the back of
the key carriage, as shown in Figure 3.9.
2. From the front of the combinator, grip the key clamp knob and pull
the key carriage out of the combinator. See Figure 3.10.

Key carriage

Stop plate
Fastener
screws

Rear view of combinator

Figure 3.9

Removing the key carriage

Key Combinator Service Manual

3–11

Service and Maintenance

To reinstall the key carriage:
1. Wipe off any excess grease and oil from the key carriage. Wipe off
any chips that have built up inside the combinator or on the key
stop area.
2. Lightly lubricate both the right and left sides of the key carriage
(page 3–28).
Note: Use only a #10 non-detergent motor oil.

3. Carefully slide the key carriage into the slots on each side of the top
plate assembly. See Figure 3.10.

ALIBR

ATE

M A2

YSTE

Top plate
assembly

Key
carriage

Key clamp
knob
Key stop area

Figure 3.10 Reinstalling the key carriage
4. Locate the spring-loaded plungers along the side rail of the top plate.
See Figure 3.11.
5. From the rear of the combinator, press in each spring-loaded
plunger with a screwdriver so that the key carriage can slide past.
See Figure 3.11.
Be careful not to damage the spring-loaded plungers when pressing
against them with a screwdriver.
Caution

3–12

Key Combinator Service Manual

Service and Maintenance
6. With the key carriage in place, install the rear stop plate with the
two fastener screws onto the back of the key carriage. Secure the
screws using a 1/8″ Allen wrench.
7. Calibrate a key to make sure the new key carriage is properly
installed (page 3–16).

Plungers

Rear view of combinator

Figure 3.11

Depressing the key carriage plungers

Replacing the
operating lever

To remove the operating lever:
1. Make sure that the key carriage is pushed completely into the key
combinator housing.
2. Using a 5/32″ Allen wrench, remove the two front screws on the
operating lever frame. Save the screws.
3. Pull down the operating lever so that it rests against the rubber
bumper on its own. See Figure 3.12.

Key Combinator Service Manual

3–13

Service and Maintenance

Caution

4. Pull the base of the operating lever assembly up and out of the key
combinator housing.
Keep your fingers away from the springs when removing this
assembly. The operating handle is spring-loaded, and springs will
disengage and could scratch your fingers.

Caution

5. Using circlip pliers, insert the plier prongs into the holes of the
retainer ring that is wrapped around the lever pin. You can remove
the retainer ring on either side of the lever pin. See Figure 3.12.
Be careful not to distort the shape of the retainer ring when removing
it. Doing so can permanently damage the retainer ring, causing the
operating lever to malfunction.

ALIB

RATE

M A2

YSTE

Circlip pliers
Lever pin
Retainer ring

Front view of combinator

Figure 3.12

Removing the operating lever
6. Remove the retainer ring. Save the retainer ring.
7. Slide the lever pin out of the operating lever assembly. Save the
lever pin.
8. Remove the operating lever.

3–14

Key Combinator Service Manual

Service and Maintenance

To reinstall the operating lever:
1. With the operating handle resting on the key combinator base, align
the holes in the operating lever with the holes on the lever branch
and slide the lever pin into position. The lever pin may be difficult
to insert in the holes. See Figure 3.12.
2. Using the circlip pliers, place the retainer ring around the lever pin
and secure the retainer ring in place. See Figure 3.12.
3. Adjust the springs so the ends fit into the spring holes on the base of
the combinator housing. See Figure 3.13. Place the other ends of the
springs into the spring slots on the operating lever frame.

RATE

ALIB

A2
EM
YST

Spring

Retainer ring

NINT
O
I
T
U
CA CH PO
PIN

Spring slot

Front view of combinator

Figure 3.13

Reinstalling the operating lever

Caution

4. With the springs in place, push the operating lever assembly back
into the key combinator housing so that the operating handle is
upright and resting against the combinator frame.
When pushing the assembly back into the combinator housing, keep
your fingers away from the springs so your fingers do not get
pinched.
5. Using a 5/32″ Allen wrench, install the two front screws and tighten
until the operating handle is properly aligned.

Key Combinator Service Manual

3–15

Service and Maintenance

CALIBRATING THE KEY COMBINATOR
Occasionally you will need to calibrate your combinator’s cutting depth
to make sure that keys are being cut properly.

Cutting a
calibration key

3–16

To cut a calibration key:
1. Gripping the key clamp knob, pull the key carriage completely
forward.
2. Turn the key clamp knob counterclockwise to open the key clamp
spring (for left-handed combinators, turn the key clamp knob
clockwise). See Figure 3.2 (page 3–4).
3. With the curved edge of the key blank against the locating surface,
slide the key blank into the key opening. Make sure that the knife
edge of the key clamp spring fits into the groove of the key. See
Figure 3.3 (page 3–5).
4. Turn the key clamp knob clockwise, locking the key blank into the
key carriage (for left-handed combinators, turn the key clamp knob
counterclockwise).
The key clamp knob hangs loosely in the six o’clock position, as
shown in Figure 3.3 (page 3–5).

Key Combinator Service Manual

Service and Maintenance
5. Move the dial on the depth selector assembly to the “CALIBRATE” line,
which is located below “0”, as shown in Figure 3.14.

Dial

Calibrate line

RATE
ALIB

YSTE

M A2

Key clamp knob

Front view of combinator

Figure 3.14

Cutting a calibration key
6. Pull the operating lever down firmly until it strikes the rubber
bumper; then, let the operating lever move back to its original
position.
Note: The first stroke of the operating lever does not make a keycut;

it only moves the key into proper position for the first cut.
The key carriage and key blank are now in place for the first cut.
7. With the depth selector still set to “CALIBRATE,” pull the operating
lever down firmly until it strikes the rubber bumper; then, let the
operating lever move back to its original position.
The combinator makes the first cut and automatically moves the key
carriage and key blank into place for the next cut.
8. Repeat Step 7 until you have made all seven cuts on the key at
calibration depth.
9. Gripping the key clamp knob, pull the key carriage completely
forward.

Key Combinator Service Manual

3–17

Service and Maintenance
10. Turn the key clamp knob counterclockwise (for left-handed
combinators, turn the key clamp knob clockwise).
11. Slide the key out.

Placing the key
in the gauge

To place the key in the gauge:
1. Insert the blade of the key into the key gauge frame. Secure the key
so that the key blade is flat against the back of the frame, and the
bottom of the key is against the base of the frame.
2. Adjust the key so that the spindle is centered in between the third
and fourth keycut, as shown in Figure 3.15.

Keycut
Spindle
Thimble

Figure 3.15 Inserting a key into the key gauge
3. Grip the thimble and slowly turn it clockwise to move the spindle
towards the key. When the spindle is touching the key and will not
go any closer, the key gauge produces a “clicking” sound; you can
stop turning the thimble.

Reading the
gauge

If you have an AD502D digital key gauge, read the measurement
displayed on the screen and skip to the section “Checking the
measurement.” For a manual key gauge, refer to Figure 3.16 and
perform the steps below.

To read the key gauge:
1. On Scale 1, read the largest visible number. Each number on Scale 1
stands for 0.100″ (one hundred thousandths of an inch). Each line
on Scale 1 stands for 0.025″ (twenty-five thousandths of an inch).
2. On Scale 1, count the number of lines between the largest number
and the end of the thimble.
3. On Scale 2, read the largest number that is even with or just below
the centerline of Scale 1. Each line on Scale 2 stands for 0.001″ (one
thousandth of an inch).

3–18

Key Combinator Service Manual

Service and Maintenance
4. On Scale 3, read the line that best aligns with a line on Scale 2. Each
line on Scale 3 stands for 0.0001″ (one ten-thousandth of an inch).

Scale 3
Scale 2

Scale 1

Scale 3

Scale 1

Centerline of Scale 1

0

1

10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1

10
9
8
7
6

Scale 2

5

4
3
2
1

2

0

24

End of thimble

Figure 3.16 Calibration measurement scale

Totaling the
measurement

Checking the
measurement

To find the depth of the keycut, add the values from the three scales.
The table below shows an example.
Step

Scale

Number

Value

1

1

Largest number visible

Reading

2

0.2000″

2

1

Number of visible lines between the largest
number and the thimble

1

0.0250″

3

1 and 2 Largest number on scale 2 that is even with or
below the centerline of scale 1

24

0.0240″

4

2 and 3 Line on scale 3 that best aligns with a line on
scale 2

5

0.0005″

Total:

0.2495″

For each of the masterkey systems, the target calibration measurement
is 0.2500″. However, the key combinator is still considered to be within
the calibration range if your measurement is between 0.2490″ and
0.2510″.
If your keycut measurement falls within this range, the key combinator
does not need adjustment. If your measurement is outside this range,
you need to adjust the depth selector or contact your BEST
Representative.

Key Combinator Service Manual

3–19

Service and Maintenance

Adjusting the
depth selector

To adjust the depth selector for a micrometer reading measuring less
than 0.2490″:
1. With a lead or grease pencil, mark a straight line across the depth
selector assembly. See Figure 3.17.

Mark across
depth selector
assembly
RATE
ALIB

YSTE

M A2

Front view of combinator

Figure 3.17

3–20

Marking the depth selector assembly

Key Combinator Service Manual

Service and Maintenance
2. While holding the depth adjuster in place, use a spanner wrench to
loosen the spanner nut. See Figure 3.18.

Spanner wrench

Spanner nut

Depth adjuster

ALIB

RATE

2
MA
YSTE

Front view of combinator

Figure 3.18

Loosening the spanner nut
3. Turn the depth adjuster counterclockwise (turning the depth
adjuster 1/4″ changes the cut depth by 0.001″—one thousandth of
an inch). Use the lead or grease mark as your reference. See
Figure 3.19.

Key Combinator Service Manual

3–21

Service and Maintenance
.

Depth adjuster

Rotate the depth adjuster
counterclockwise.
RATE
ALIB

YSTE

M A2

Front view of combinator

Figure 3.19

Turning the depth adjuster counterclockwise
4. While holding the depth adjuster in place, tighten the spanner nut.
If the depth adjuster moves while you are tightening the spanner
nut, go to Step 5. Otherwise, go to Step 6.
5. If the depth adjuster moves while you are tightening the spanner
nut:
■ Loosen the spanner nut again.
■ Return the depth adjuster to its original position, using the lead or
grease mark as your reference.
■ Repeat Step 2 through Step 4.
6. Perform the following steps:
■ Cut the calibration key (page 3–16).
■ Place the key in the gauge (page 3–18).
■ Read the gauge (page 3–18).
■ Total and check the measurement (page 3–19).
Note: The new keycut depth should be within calibration range. If
not, send the key combinator to the BEST factory for repair.

3–22

Key Combinator Service Manual

Service and Maintenance

To adjust the depth selector for a micrometer reading measuring more
than 0.2510″:
1. With a lead or grease pencil, make a mark across the depth selector
assembly. See Figure 3.17.
2. While holding the depth adjuster in place, use the spanner wrench
to loosen the spanner nut. See Figure 3.18.
3. Rotate the depth adjuster clockwise (turning the depth adjuster 1/4″
changes the cut depth by 0.0010″—one thousandth of an inch). Use
the lead or grease mark as a reference. See Figure 3.20.

Depth adjuster

Rotate the depth
adjuster clockwise.

RATE
ALIB

YSTE

M A2

Front view of combinator

Figure 3.20

Turning the depth adjuster clockwise
4. While holding the depth adjuster in place, tighten the spanner nut.
If the depth adjuster moves while you are tightening the spanner
nut, go to Step 5. Otherwise, go to Step 6.

Key Combinator Service Manual

3–23

Service and Maintenance
5. If the depth adjuster moves while you are tightening the spanner
nut:
■ Loosen the spanner nut again.
■ Return the depth adjuster to its original position, using the lead or
grease mark as your reference.
■ Repeat Step 2 through Step 4.
6. Perform the following steps:
■ Cut the calibration key (page 3–16).
■ Place the key in the gauge (page 3–18).
■ Read the gauge (page 3–18).
■ Total and check the measurement (page 3–19).

3–24

Key Combinator Service Manual

Service and Maintenance

ADJUSTING THE KEY CLAMP SPRING
Because keys may vary slightly in thickness, you may need to
occasionally adjust the key clamp spring to make sure that keys are
properly clamped in the key carriage.
If your key is either difficult to insert or too loose to clamp into place,
perform the following steps.

To adjust the key clamp spring:
1. Gripping the key clamp knob, pull the key carriage completely
forward.
2. Raise the key clamp spring by turning the key clamp knob
counterclockwise, as shown in Figure 3.21 (for left-handed
combinators, turn the key clamp knob clockwise).
3. Slide a key blank into the key carriage.
If the key is difficult to insert, go to Step 4a.
If the key is too loose to clamp in place, go to Step 4b.

Key carriage
RATE
ALIB

M A2
YSTE

Key clamp knob

Key blank

Front view of combinator

Figure 3.21

Loading a key

Key Combinator Service Manual

3–25

Service and Maintenance
4a. If the key is difficult to insert, use a 5/32″ Allen wrench to turn the
adjustment screw clockwise, in 30° increments, until you achieve
the appropriate insertion force. You may need to pull the operating
lever down slightly to properly position your Allen wrench. See
Figure 3.22. A small amount of drag on the key is needed.
Go to Step 5.
4b. If the key is too loose to clamp in place, use a 5/32″ Allen wrench to
turn the adjustment screw counterclockwise, in 30° increments,
until you achieve the appropriate insertion force. You may need to
pull the operating lever down slightly to properly position your
Allen wrench. See Figure 3.22. A small amount of drag on the key is
needed.
Go to Step 5.
5. Turn the key clamp knob completely clockwise to clamp the key
blank into the key carriage (for left-handed combinators, turn the
clamp knob counterclockwise).
6. Calibrate a key to make sure the key clamp spring is properly
adjusted (page 3–16).

Operating lever
Allen wrench

Adjustment
screw
ALIB

RATE

M A2
YSTE

Key clamp knob

Figure 3.22 Adjusting the key clamp spring

3–26

Key Combinator Service Manual

Service and Maintenance

PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE
Preventative maintenance is vital for keeping your key combinator
functioning properly. To ensure accurate keycuts and avoid possible
malfunctions, periodically perform the tasks below. It is also a good
idea to keep your key combinator covered whenever it is not in use.
Doing so will help keep dust and other foreign particles out of the
crevices of the combinator.
To help maintain your key combinator, perform the following tasks:
■ Clean (wipe down) the following items:
▲ chip chute to remove metal chips
▲ outside of key combinator to remove dust and other particles
▲ key carriage compartment to remove dust and
metal chips (page 3–27)
▲ punch and die compartment to remove dust and
metal chips (page 3–27).
■ Check for and tighten any loose screws.
■ Adjust the key clamp spring as needed (page 3–25).
■ Calibrate for consistency (page 3–16).
■ Lubricate necessary parts (page 3–28).
See the BEST Key Combinator Preventative Maintenance Record
Sheet in Appendix B of this manual to help you keep records of your
maintenance tasks.

CLEANING PARTS
Cleaning the
punch and die

Cleaning the
key carriage

To clean the punch and die:
1. Remove the depth selector (page 3–7).
2. Remove the punch and die assembly (page 3–9).
3. Wipe out any key chips and dust from the compartment. Do not
lubricate this area.
4. Lubricate both sides of the die (page 3–28).
5. Reinstall the punch and die assembly (page 3–10).
6. Reinstall the depth selector (page 3–8).

To clean the key carriage:
1.
2.
3.
4.

Remove the key carriage (page 3–11).
Wipe out any chips and dust from the compartment.
Lubricate both sides of the carriage (page 3–28).
Reinstall the key carriage (page 3–11).

Key Combinator Service Manual

3–27

Service and Maintenance

LUBRICATING PARTS
It is important to lubricate your key combinator regularly with a quality
#10 non-detergent motor oil. Signs that your combinator is overdue for
lubrication include:
■ squeaking sounds
■ corrosion
■ difficulty making keycuts
■ tightness in moving the operating lever.

Guidelines for
lubrication

Lubricating the
key combinator
housing

To avoid damaging your combinator and causing inaccurate keycuts,
please adhere to the following:
■ Apply only enough oil to barely wet the appropriate points to avoid
overlubricating your combinator.
■ Do not lubricate the chip chute, the depth selector, or the roller on
the punch and die. Chips could stick to these parts, causing
malfunctions.
■ Do not apply any type of silicone-based lubricant to your
combinator. Doing so may void your warranty or service agreement.
■ Do not use an air hose to remove chips or dust from the key
combinator. Doing so may void your warranty or service agreement.

To lubricate the outer frame/housing of the key combinator:
1. Apply one drop of oil into each of the upper front holes and rear
holes. See Figure 3.23.
2. Apply one drop of oil into the 3/8″ diameter pin located above the
adjustment screw.

To lubricate the key carriage:
1. Apply one drop of oil into the 1/4″ diameter pin located on top of
the key carriage.
2. Apply one drop of oil on both sides of the key carriage’s sliding
surfaces. See Figure 3.23.
Slide the key carriage in and out as you lubricate.

3–28

Key Combinator Service Manual

Service and Maintenance

To lubricate the operating lever:
1. Apply one drop of oil onto each side of the operating lever frame.
See Figure 3.23.
2. Apply one drop of oil onto the springs connected to the operating
lever.
3. Apply one drop of oil to each of the other linkages that you can
conveniently reach.
You need to pull down and hold the operating lever to reach some
of these areas.

Upper front holes

3/8” diameter pin

Key carriage assembly
RATE
ALIB

M A2

YSTE

Operating lever frame
Springs

Figure 3.23

Lubricating parts

Key Combinator Service Manual

3–29

Service and Maintenance

To lubricate the punch and die:
1. Remove the following items:
■ depth selector assembly (page 3–7)
■ punch and die assembly (page 3–9).
2. Apply one drop of oil each of the sides of the die block. See
Figure 3.24. Do not lubricate the roller or the punch and die
compartment.
3. Reinstall the following items:
■ punch and die assembly (page 3–10)
■ depth selector assembly (page 3–8).

Punch

Die block

Roller

Side view of combinator

Figure 3.24

3–30

Lubricating the punch and die

Key Combinator Service Manual

Service and Maintenance

TROUBLESHOOTING
This table summarizes the possible causes for the most common key
combinator problems. The causes are listed in the order of likelihood.
(The most likely cause is first, and so forth.)
You notice…
Key is difficult to insert in the key
combinator.

Key is loose in the key carriage.

Possible causes include…
a. Key clamp spring is closed.

You should…
a. Turn the key clamp knob to open
the key clamp spring.

b. Key clamp spring needs to be
adjusted.

b. Adjust the key clamp spring until
the key feels tightly secured in the
key carriage (page 3–25).

a. Key clamp spring is open.

a. Turn the key clamp knob to close
the key clamp spring.

b. Key clamp spring needs to be
adjusted.

b. Adjust the key clamp spring until
the key feels tightly secured in the
key carriage (page 3–25).

Depth selector is jammed or will
Chips are lodged in the guide rails.
not allow selection of deeper cuts.

Remove the punch and die and clear
away the chips from the guide rails
(page 3–27).

There is a burr in the keycut.

a. Handle was not depressed
completely.

a. Recut the key (page 3–4).

b. Punch and die are worn.

b. Replace the punch and die
(page 3–9).

a. Depth selector was not released
when the cut was made.

a. Follow the steps for cutting keys
(page 3–4).

b. Cutting depth needs to be
calibrated.

b. Calibrate the depth of the cut
(page 3–16).

c. There are chips on the depth
selector.

c. Remove the depth selector
(page 3–7) and clear away the
chips.

d. There are chips on the die
assembly roller.

d. Remove the depth selector
(page 3–7) as well as the punch
and die (page 3–9). Clear away the
chips.

Keycut depth is incorrect.

Operating handle is difficult to pull a. Retainer ring is hyper extended.
down.

Keycut spacing is incorrect.

Key Combinator Service Manual

a. Replace the retainer ring.

b. Operating lever needs to be
lubricated.

b. Lubricate the lever handle
(page 3–29).

Key carriage does not move or
moves inconsistently.

Remove the key carriage and clear
away any chips. If the problem persists,
return the combinator to BEST for
repair.

3–31

Service and Maintenance

3–32

Key Combinator Service Manual

A

GLOSSARY

Calibrate

To check against a known standard and adjust to that
standard.

Calibration depth

Standard keycut measurement (.2500″) that the key
combinator should cut when the calibration position
is selected.

Calibration
position
Core
Depth selector

Position on the depth selector that, when selected,
sets up the key combinator to cut the calibration
depth keycut.
See interchangeable core.
Dial on the key combinator, marked with numbers,
that is used for selecting keycut depths.

Figure-8

Shape of the interchangeable core and its housing
(housings include door knob, cylinder, padlock, and
so forth).

Interchangeable
core

Figure-8 shaped device that contains all the
mechanical parts for a masterkey system. The
interchangeable core can be removed with a special
control key and recombinated without disassembling
the lock.

Key blank
Key carriage
Key clamp knob
Key clamp spring

Key Combinator Service Manual

Key with a keyway shape, but without keycuts.
Housing that moves the key to each keycut position.
Knob that operates the key clamp spring and that is
used to pull out or push in the key carriage.
Part of the key combinator that holds the key in
place.

A–1

Glossary
Key combinator
Keycut
Keycut depth
Key gauge
Keying system

Notch in a key that fits a corresponding pin segment of a core.
Distance from the bottom of the keycut to the underside of the key
blade.
AD502 gauge that measures keycut depths. This gauge is used to
calibrate the key combinator.
Method of keying locks.

Keyway

Cross-section shape milled into the key blank and broached into core
plugs.

Left-handed key
combinator

Key combinator that cuts only patented or left-handed premium keys.

Masterkeying

Process of combinating locks to allow a single key to operate many
locks and to allow each lock to be operated by a unique key at the same
time.

Punch and die

Part of the key combinator that notches keys to a precise shape.

Right-handed key
combinator
Setup stroke

A–2

Machine that notches cuts into BEST key blanks for BEST masterkey
systems.

Key combinator that cuts only standard or right-handed premium keys.
First stroke of the operating lever that positions the key for cutting.

Key Combinator Service Manual

B

PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE

Use the following page to record periodic cleaning
and maintenance tasks that are performed on your
key combinator. The frequency with which you
perform these tasks may vary based on your specific
needs.

Key Combinator Service Manual

B–1

B–2

Key Combinator Service Manual

By:

Date:

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Date:

† Calibrate whenever you service your key combinator as well.

Calibrate for
consistency†

Lubricate the
necessary parts

Clean the
punch and die

Clean the key
carriage

Date:

Date:

By:

By:

By:

Date:

Date:

By:

By:

Date:

Date:

Date:

Clean and dust Date:
the outside of
the combinator By:

Task

By:

Date:

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Record date and initial when task is completed

By:

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BEST Key Combinator Preventative Maintenance Record Sheet

By:

Date:

By:

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By:

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By:

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Preventative Maintenance

C

INDEX

A

E

adjusting the depth selector
for key cut measuring less than 0.2490"
3–20
for key cut measuring more than 0.2510"
3–23
adjusting the key clamp spring 3–25

exploded diagrams
see part numbers and drawings

C
calibrating
checking the measurement 3–19
cutting the key 3–16
placing the key in the gauge 3–18
reading the gauge 3–18
totaling the measurement 3–19
circlip pliers 3–2
cleaning
general tips 3–27
key carriage 3–27
punch and die 3–27

D
depth selector
A2 assembly 2–2 to 2–3
A3 assembly 2–2 to 2–3
A4 assembly 2–2 to 2–3
adjusting 3–20
reinstalling 3–8
removing 3–7
documentation package
see technical documentation package
drawings, of parts
see part numbers and drawings

Key Combinator Service Manual

K
key calibration gauge 3–2
key carriage
6-pin Peaks assembly 2–2
7-pin Peaks assembly 2–2
cleaning 3–27
lubricating 3–28
premium assembly 2–2 to 2–3
reinstalling 3–12
removing 3–11
standard assembly 2–3
key clamp spring, adjusting 3–25
keys
cutting 3–5
loading 3–4
patented key 2–4
premium key 2–4
standard key 2–4
unloading 3–6
keyways 2–5

L
lubricating
combinator housing 3–28
guidelines to follow 3–28
key carriage 3–28
operating lever 3–29
punch and die 3–30

C-1

Index

M

S

machine handing 3–2
maintenance, preventative
general tasks 3–27
record sheet B–2

spanner wrench 3–2
support, technical
see technical support

N
numbers, for parts
see part numbers and drawings

T
technical documentation package
1–3
technical support 1–3
troubleshooting 3–25

O
operating lever
lubricating 3–29
reinstalling 3–15
removing 3–13
standard assembly 2–2 to 2–3

P
part numbers and drawings
for circlip pliers 3–2
for key calibration guage 3–2
for left-handed key combinator
2–2
for patented key 2–4
for premium key 2–4
for right-handed key
combinator 2–3
for spanner wrench 3–2
for standard key 2–4
product family diagram 1–2
punch and die
cleaning 3–27
lubricating 3–30
Peaks assembly 2–2
reinstalling 3–10
removing 3–9
standard assembly 2–2 to 2–3

R
reinstalling
depth selector 3–8
key carriage 3–12
operating lever 3–15
punch and die 3–10
removing
depth selector 3–7
key carriage 3–11
operating lever 3–13
punch and die 3–9

C-2

Key Combinator Service Manual



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