Things started out simply enough. We wanted to get some extra keys cut for our RV. We asked at a hardware store, but they didn’t have the blanks required to cut motorhome keys. In Quartzsite, we were pleased to find a guy cutting keys out of his trailer, and he specifically caters to RVers.
The locks on the exterior compartments of our motorhome were stiff. Sticky. Downright difficult to turn. While figuring out which keys to have cut, I managed to break one off in a lock (one that I’d previously bent and straightened in Mountain View), jamming the blade inside the lock cylinder.
I explained my dilemma to the guy who was cutting our keys, and he kindly suggested the rather complicated steps I should take to remove the lock cylinder, after which I could push the broken key out from the back side. He loaned me a lock pick (aren’t they illegal?), and then reassured me by saying, “I’m not a locksmith”.
After a lot of trying I couldn’t get the door open using his technique, but I did manage to pick the lock and open the compartment. I disassembled the latch from the inside, thinking I had my problem solved. The latch came apart into many pieces, and eventually I was able to remove the lock cylinder and push out the broken key.
Reassembling the latch turned out to be tougher than I expected. I knew the order of assembly, but could not for the life of me figure out how to put the pieces together. So now I had an open compartment without a latch.
I reverted to Plan B, pulling out my ‘go-to’ tools – duct tape (I’m Canadian after all) and rope (I’m also a Queen’s Scout – yes I know that sounds kinda gay, not that there’s anything wrong with that). I also incorporated a bit of bubble wrap, but I’m not bragging.
And Diane says that I’m not handy. What do you think?
Girls stick together, sorry Pat, I have to agree with Diane on this one. But I do know you are persistent and it will be finished one way or another. Even if it means hiring a “professional” (usually the best idea)
Ouch! If the women don’t find you handy, they should at least find you handsome.
Don’t worry Pat, it was only in this one incident. “premature speculation”!
Yes there is that choice…if you can’t be handy you better be handsome LOL. I think Red Green would be so proud of you Patrick 🙂
Way to go Pat!
You are far to funny, my handsome young nephew.
Nice one patrick, reminds me of a Flanders and Swann song ‘ The Gas Man Cometh’
Speaking of making work… You encylopedic knowledge of the arts had me searching the Interweb for what turned out to be a British musical comedy duo from the late 1950’s
and a song that, although not important enough to make their wikipedia page, I did find and enjoy on Youtube
Once again my knowledge of the inane is challenged by a fellow master of the inconsequential.
I hoped you enjoyed the chase. I am flattered to be considered a ‘fellow anything’ by one who I have, thus far considered peerless.