Mr. Locksmith’s Complete Guide to the KWIKSET 660 Deadbolt: Install, Rekey, Pick & Bypass: Learn how to install, rekey, pick, and bypass the popular KWIKSET 660 deadbolt with Mr. Locksmith! Perfect for DIYers, homeowners, and locksmith students. (Source: Terry Whin-Yates)

Source: Mr. Locksmith Youtube http://www.youtube.com/user/24hrMrLocksmith

Mr. Locksmith’s Complete Guide to the KWIKSET 660 Deadbolt: Install, Rekey, Pick & Bypass

Mr. Locksmith 604-330-9915

Locksmith Automotive (604) 259-7617

The KWIKSET 660 deadbolt is one of the most common locks you’ll find on residential doors across North America—and for good reason. Simple, affordable, and easy to rekey, this single-cylinder deadbolt remains a staple in both professional locksmithing and DIY home security projects.

Whether you’re looking to install one, rekey it, or understand how professionals unlock or bypass it, Mr. Locksmith is here to walk you through everything you need to know.

What Is the KWIKSET 660 Deadbolt?

The KWIKSET 660 is a standard single-cylinder deadbolt with a thumb turn on the inside and a keyed entry on the outside. While newer models (like KWIKSET SmartKey) offer keyless convenience or drill-resistant features, the 660 remains popular due to its simplicity and wide availability.

At Mr. Locksmith, we regularly install, rekey, and service this model. It’s the deadbolt most commonly found in hardware stores, property management inventories, and contractor supply kits.

Installation: Simple and Straightforward

Installing the KWIKSET 660 is quick and beginner-friendly. Each unit comes with:

A single-cylinder deadbolt
An adjustable latch bolt (for both 2-3/8″ and 2-3/4″ backsets)
A “D”-shaped tailpiece to prevent improper alignment during installation

Because of the D-shape tailpiece, it’s nearly impossible to install this lock incorrectly. The keyway should always be right side up for smooth operation.

Rekeying the KWIKSET 660

Rekeying is one of the main reasons locksmiths love this model. To rekey:

Remove the cylinder from the housing.
Use a Kwikset-specific follower and a pinning kit (LAB kit recommended).
Replace the pins to match your new key cut.

Rekeying takes just a few minutes with the right tools, and it’s one of the best ways to secure your home after moving or losing a key.

Common Issues (and How to Fix Them)

Here are a few problems we encounter regularly:

Key turns 360° but won’t unlock – This usually means a broken tailpiece.
Key jams or won’t insert fully – Often caused by dirt, damage, or misalignment.
Stiff or noisy operation – Easily solved with lubricant like WD-40 or Tri-Flow.

If you’re troubleshooting, always try cleaning and lubricating the cylinder first. If problems persist, a full replacement or a professional inspection might be required.

Advanced Techniques: Picking & Bypassing the KWIKSET 660

For locksmiths and enthusiasts looking to refine their skills, the 660 is a perfect training lock. Here are common methods we use:

Single Pin Picking (SPP): Works well on the standard KWIKSET pinning system.
Rake or Rocking Tools: Fast but less precise.
Lishi KW1 Pick: A must-have for locksmiths—provides quick, visual feedback.

If the lock is malfunctioning and picking fails, drilling at the shear line is your next step. Use a 1/4″ drill bit to target the pins, then turn the plug using a flathead or tension tool.

When Drilling Isn’t Enough

Sometimes the issue is deeper—like a seized tailpiece. In those rare cases:

Drill out the screws from the interior side of the lock.
Use a screwdriver or pry bar to remove the entire lock body.
Exercise caution to avoid damaging the door.

This is a last-resort method best left to professionals, but it’s important to know it exists.

Hands-On Training with Mr. Locksmith

If you’re an aspiring locksmith or DIY enthusiast, we strongly recommend practicing with real locks on a training board. At Mr. Locksmith Training, we teach rekeying, picking, and bypass methods using real-world examples—including the KWIKSET 660.

Mastering this lock is a great foundation for more advanced lock systems down the road.

Why the KWIKSET 660 Remains a Locksmith Favorite

Easy to install and rekey
Affordable and widely available
Ideal for training and hands-on experience
Compatible with basic and advanced lockpicking techniques

Whether you’re securing your own home or helping a client, understanding the KWIKSET 660 gives you a solid edge in home security. Source: Terry Whin-Yates Mr. Locksmith Linkedin