At some point in time, you may find yourself in need of replacing the door handle on your Larson door. This is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few short steps. However, before you begin, it is important to gather the necessary tools and materials. You will need a Phillips head screwdriver, a flat head screwdriver, and a new door handle. Once you have these items, you can begin the process of replacing the door handle.
The first step is to remove the old door handle. To do this, simply use the Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screws that are holding the handle in place. Once the screws are removed, you can carefully pull the handle off of the door. Be sure to support the handle as you do this so that it does not fall and become damaged.
Next, you will need to prepare the new door handle for installation. To do this, simply insert the screws that came with the new handle into the holes on the back of the handle. Be sure to tighten the screws securely so that the handle is firmly attached to the door. Once the handle is installed, you can test it to make sure that it is working properly.
Removing the Old Handle Mechanism
To start the process of replacing the Larson door handle, it’s crucial to carefully remove the old handle mechanism. Here are the detailed steps to guide you through this task:
Step 1: Gather Necessary Tools
Before you begin, ensure you have the essential tools for the job, including a screwdriver (Phillips or flathead depending on the handle design), pliers, and a putty knife or thin pry bar.
Step 2: Identify Handle Type
Determine the type of handle you have, whether it’s a lever or knob handle. Lever handles have a base plate attached to the door, while knob handles typically have a threaded post that extends through the door. The removal process may vary slightly based on the handle type.
Step 3: Remove Screws
Using the appropriate screwdriver, locate and remove the screws that secure the handle to the door. There may be screws on both the interior and exterior sides of the door.
Step 4: Separate Handle Pieces
Once the screws are removed, carefully separate the handle pieces. For lever handles, the latch assembly will need to be disengaged from the door edge. For knob handles, the knob should simply pull off the threaded post.
Step 5: Remove Latch Assembly (For Lever Handles Only)
If you’re replacing a lever handle, you may need to remove the latch assembly. Use pliers to gently pry the assembly out of the door edge. Be cautious not to damage the door or the latch mechanism.
Step 6: Clean Installation Area
Before installing the new handle, take a moment to clean the installation area on the door with a damp cloth. This will remove any dirt or debris that could interfere with the proper functioning of the new handle.
Disassembling the Inner Lock Cylinder
1. Remove the screw that secures the interior escutcheon plate to the door. The screw is usually located in the center of the plate.
2. **Carefully remove the interior escutcheon plate**. To do this, grasp the plate firmly with one hand and gently pull it straight toward you. You may need to use a pair of pliers to gently pry the plate loose.
- Be careful not to damage the door or the lock cylinder when removing the escutcheon plate.
- If the escutcheon plate is difficult to remove, you may need to apply some penetrating oil to the screw and allow it to sit for a few minutes before trying to remove it.
| Step | Action |
| 1 | Identify the screw securing the interior escutcheon plate. |
| 2 | Loosen the screw using a screwdriver. |
| 3 | Gently pull the escutcheon plate straight toward you. |
3. Once the escutcheon plate is removed, you will see the inner lock cylinder. The cylinder is held in place by a retaining clip.
4. **Use a small flat-head screwdriver to carefully pry the retaining clip out of place.** Once the clip is removed, you will be able to pull the inner lock cylinder straight out of the door.
Preparing the New Handle for Installation
Before installing your new Larson door handle, it’s essential to ensure it’s ready for the job. Follow these steps to prepare the handle:
Remove the Old Hardware
Start by removing any existing door handle hardware. Unscrew any mounting screws or bolts and carefully detach the old handle from the door.
Check Alignment
Align the new door handle with the existing holes on the door. Ensure it’s centered and level. Use a level to check if it’s straight, preventing any wobbling or uneven fit.
Configure the Latch
Adjust the latch mechanism to fit your door thickness. Most Larson door handles come with adjustable latches. Use a screwdriver or hex key to extend or retract the latch as needed. Match the extended portion to the thickness of your door, ensuring a snug fit when it closes.
| Door Thickness | Latch Extension |
|---|---|
| 1-3/8 inches | 1-1/2 inches |
| 1-3/4 inches | 1-3/4 inches |
| 2 inches | 2 inches |
Once the latch is configured, you’re ready to install your new Larson door handle. Remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully for a secure and proper installation.
Inserting the New Cylinder and Handle
1. Insert the Cylinder
* Align the key hole of the new cylinder with the key hole in the door.
* Push the cylinder into the door until it clicks into place.
2. Install the Handle
* Position the new handle over the spindle that extends from the cylinder.
* Align the screw holes on the handle with those on the door.
* Insert the screws and tighten them with a screwdriver.
3. Secure the Handle with Screws
* Locate the two screws that came with the new handle.
* Insert the screws into the holes on the handle and tighten them with a screwdriver.
* The handle should now be securely attached to the door.
4. Install the Exterior Side of the Handle
* If your door has an exterior handle, locate the two screws that hold it in place.
* Remove the screws and pull off the exterior handle.
* Align the new exterior handle with the holes on the door and spindle.
* Insert the screws and tighten them with a screwdriver.
* The exterior handle should now be securely attached to the door.
5. Test the Handle
* Try opening and closing the door with the new handle.
* Make sure the handle moves smoothly and the door opens and closes easily.
Installing the Handle
Align the handle with the mounting holes on the door and secure it with the provided screws.
Tighten the screws until the handle is firmly attached.
Installing the Latch
Insert the latch into the strike plate slot and secure it with screws.
Make sure the latch engages properly with the strike plate when the door is closed.
Securing the Handle and Strike Plate
1. Position the strike plate over the hole in the door frame, ensuring that the latch will align properly when the door is closed.
2. Mark the screw holes on the strike plate with a pencil or awl.
3. Drill pilot holes for the screws at the marked locations.
4. Insert the screws into the pilot holes and tighten them until the strike plate is securely attached to the door frame.
5. **Adjusting the Latch Engagement:**
– Close the door and check if the latch securely engages with the strike plate.
– If the latch does not engage properly, loosen the screws on the strike plate slightly and adjust its position until the latch engages smoothly and securely.
– Tighten the screws again to secure the strike plate in its adjusted position.
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a level to ensure the strike plate is straight | This will help the latch engage smoothly |
| Avoid over-tightening the screws | This can damage the strike plate or door frame |
Testing the Latching Mechanism
To confirm that the latching mechanism is malfunctioning, follow these steps:
- Open the door and inspect the latch.
- Using a screwdriver or coin, gently depress the latch tongue.
- If the tongue moves easily and returns to its original position, the latching mechanism is likely in good condition.
- If the tongue is stuck or doesn’t move at all, there may be a problem with the latch.
- Check for debris or obstructions that may be preventing the latch from engaging properly.
- If there are no obstructions, the latch may need to be replaced.
The following table summarizes the potential causes and solutions for a malfunctioning latching mechanism:
| Cause | Solution |
|---|---|
| Stuck latch | Clean or lubricate the latch |
| Broken latch | Replace the latch |
| Obstructions | Remove any debris or obstructions from the latch |
Adjusting the Handle Height
Adjusting the handle height allows you to customize the door handle to your preferred height, ensuring comfortable operation. Here’s a detailed guide to help you through the process:
- Determine the desired handle height by measuring the distance from the floor to a comfortable position for your hand to grip the handle.
- Locate the two set screws on the handle. These are typically located near the top and bottom of the handle.
- Use an Allen key or hex key to loosen both set screws, allowing the handle to slide vertically.
- Adjust the handle height by sliding it up or down to the desired position.
- Tighten both set screws to secure the handle in place.
- Check the handle’s alignment by ensuring it is centered within the door handle recess.
- Open and close the door to ensure smooth operation and that the handle height is comfortable for use.
Below is a table summarizing the steps involved in adjusting the handle height:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Determine the desired handle height. |
| 2 | Locate the set screws on the handle. |
| 3 | Loosen both set screws. |
| 4 | Adjust the handle height. |
| 5 | Tighten both set screws. |
| 6 | Check handle alignment. |
| 7 | Test door operation. |
Lubricating the Moving Parts
Follow these steps to lubricate the moving parts of your Larson storm door handle:
-
Apply a few drops of a light-weight oil, such as WD-40 or Tri-Flow, to the following areas:
-
The hinge pin where the handle connects to the door
-
The latch mechanism
-
The spring
-
Use a cotton swab or a small brush to distribute the oil evenly.
-
Wipe away any excess oil.
-
Test the handle to make sure it is working smoothly.
Lubrication Points Hinge pin where the handle connects to the door Latch mechanism Spring Here are some tips for lubricating the moving parts of your Larson storm door handle:
-
Use a light-weight oil that will not attract dirt or dust.
-
Apply the oil sparingly.
-
Wipe away any excess oil.
-
Test the handle to make sure it is working smoothly.
Finalizing the Installation
9. Tighten the Screws
Once the handle assembly is in place, tighten the screws that secure it to the door. Ensure that they are snug but not overly tightened, as this could damage the assembly or the door itself. Use a screwdriver or power drill with a proper bit to tighten the screws.
The specific type of screws and driver required may vary depending on the Larson handle model. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions or packaging for the correct specifications.
Below is a table summarizing the steps for finalizing the installation:
Step Description 1 Tighten the screws securing the handle assembly to the door. 2 Ensure that the screws are snug but not overly tightened. 3 Use a screwdriver or power drill with a proper bit for tightening. 4 Refer to manufacturer’s instructions for specific screw and driver requirements, if needed. Step 1: Gather Your Tools
Before you begin, gather the following tools: a Phillips head screwdriver, a flat head screwdriver, and a pair of pliers.
Step 2: Remove the Screws from the Handle
Use the Phillips head screwdriver to remove the two screws that are holding the handle in place.
Step 3: Remove the Handle
Once the screws are removed, carefully pull the handle straight out from the door.
Step 4: Remove the Latch
Use the flat head screwdriver to pry the latch off of the door.
Step 5: Install the New Latch
Insert the new latch into the hole in the door and secure it with the screws.
Step 6: Install the New Handle
Align the new handle with the hole in the door and insert it. Secure it with the screws.
Step 7: Check the Operation
Open and close the door to make sure that the new handle is working properly.
Step 8: Install the Strike Plate
If the strike plate is not already installed, use the screws to secure it to the door frame.
Step 9: Adjust the Strike Plate
If the door is not latching properly, adjust the strike plate by moving it slightly up or down until the door latches securely.
Maintaining and Troubleshooting the Handle
1. Cleaning
Regularly clean the handle with a damp cloth and a mild detergent. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals.
2. Lubrication
If the handle is squeaking or sticking, apply a small amount of lubricant to the moving parts. Use a lubricant that is specifically designed for door hardware.
3. Tightening Screws
Periodically check the screws that are holding the handle in place and tighten them if necessary. Loose screws can cause the handle to become loose or fall off.
4. Replacing the Latch
If the latch is worn or damaged, it can be replaced. To replace the latch, remove the screws that are holding it in place and install the new latch. Secure it with the screws.
5. Replacing the Handle
If the handle is damaged or broken, it can be replaced. To replace the handle, remove the screws that are holding it in place and install the new handle. Secure it with the screws.
6. Adjusting the Strike Plate
If the door is not latching properly, adjust the strike plate by moving it slightly up or down until the door latches securely.
7. Troubleshooting Sticking Handles
If the handle is sticking, it may be caused by dirt or debris that has accumulated on the moving parts. Clean the handle with a damp cloth and a mild detergent, and apply a small amount of lubricant to the moving parts.
8. Troubleshooting Loose Handles
If the handle is loose, it may be caused by loose screws. Check the screws that are holding the handle in place and tighten them if necessary.
9. Troubleshooting Broken Handles
If the handle is broken, it will need to be replaced. To replace the handle, remove the screws that are holding it in place and install the new handle. Secure it with the screws.
10. Troubleshooting Door That Won’t Open
If the door won’t open, it may be caused by a jammed latch. Try to jiggle the handle or apply pressure to the door while turning the handle. If the door still won’t open, it may be necessary to call a locksmith.
Tool Purpose Phillips head screwdriver Remove and install screws Flat head screwdriver Pry off latch Pliers Hold and bend wires How To Replace Larson Door Handle
Replacing a Larson door handle is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes with the right tools and materials. Here are the steps on how to do it:
- Remove the old door handle. To do this, locate the two screws that are holding the handle in place and remove them using a screwdriver.
- Insert the new door handle. Align the new handle with the holes in the door and insert the screws. Tighten the screws until the handle is secure.
- Test the new door handle. Open and close the door a few times to make sure that it is working properly.
People Also Ask About How To Replace Larson Door Handle
How do you remove a Larson storm door handle?
To remove a Larson storm door handle, locate the two screws that are holding the handle in place and remove them using a screwdriver. The handle should then be able to be pulled off of the door.
How do you install a new handle on a Larson storm door?
To install a new handle on a Larson storm door, first remove the old handle. Then, align the new handle with the holes in the door and insert the screws. Tighten the screws until the handle is secure.
How do you fix a loose Larson storm door handle?
If your Larson storm door handle is loose, it can be tightened by simply tightening the screws that are holding it in place. To do this, use a screwdriver to turn the screws clockwise until the handle is secure.
-
-
