The lock is broken and/or will not open?
If the file is still under warranty, please call your dealer or Schwab for assistance.

Files: Lock/No Lock Mechanism
All Schwab files feature the lock/no lock option, which allows you to decide which drawers, if any, you wish to remain unlocked, even when the file lock is engaged. Note: The drawer on which the lock is installed must be closed with the lock/no lock mechanism in the "Lock" position and latched for the lock to engage. The lock/no lock control mechanism is located on the outer right side of each drawer body (Figure 1).

When the mechanism is in the "Lock" position, as detailed in Figure 1B, the drawer will lock anytime the file lock is engaged. To position the lock/no lock mechanism in the "Lock" position, pull the latch towards the drawer front, then rotate the latch clockwise until the latch stops. Release pressure and the latch will lock in place. When the mechanism is in the "No Lock" position, detailed in Figure 1C, the drawer will not lock when closed, even if the lock is engaged. To position the lock/no lock mechanism in the "No Lock" position, pull the latch towards the drawer front, rotate the latch counter-clockwise until the latch stops. Release pressure and the latch will lock in place.

The drawer head is damaged and needs replacing?

Figure 2

Obtain the replacement drawer head either through your dealer or direct from Schwab. To remove the damaged drawer head, open the drawer and remove the lock, first remove the screw (A) as detailed in Figure 2. Insert the key into the lock and turn the key to the open position. Pull the lock from the drawer head and then pull the spring and the cap from the lock housing. Remove the 4 side screws (B) on the back of the drawer front. Loosen, but don’t remove, the two screws (C) on the upper rear of the drawer head. Pulling straight up, remove the damaged drawer head. To install the new drawer head, carefully slide the replacement onto the drawer front, as shown in Figure 2. Snug the two upper screws (C). Align the drawer head so that it does not hit or rub the file body when the drawer is closed, then tighten the upper screws (C) fully. It may be necessary to drill new side holes (D) close by the existing holes, before inserting and tightening the four side screws (B).

The file handle sticks?

Figure 3

Lubricate the pivot point of the handle as needed, as shown by the solid arrow (A) in Figure 3. (Recessed handle style depicted.)

The plunger lock sticks?
Applying a small amount of Vaseline to the sides of lock body should correct this.

Service Parts
Service parts are available through your dealer, or you may purchase them directly from Schwab. It is very important that, if replacement parts or accessories are required, you use only genuine Schwab parts. Other brands may not be interchangeable, and you may damage your product.