The move-in instructions said, “Right twice to 3, left once to 7.” Those are made-up numbers to avoid revealing the real combination. But what did “twice” mean? Two marks on the dial? Two full turns after reaching 3? Opening the mailbox had suddenly become a puzzle.
Count the arrivals at the number
For the lock described here, I needed to turn right, pass 3 the first time, and stop on it the second time. Then turn left and stop at the first 7.
That made sense. I tried it. Still locked. Now I understood the numbers and was still losing to a mailbox.
Reset first, then enter the sequence
I had started straight after my earlier attempts. This lock needed the turning sequence as well as the numbers to line up. Several full turns in the initial direction, followed by the instructions again, finally opened it. My previous attempts felt as though they had left a ghost in the dial.
With the fictional numbers, the sequence was:
- Reset with several turns in the specified starting direction.
- Turn right, pass 3 once, and stop at the second 3.
- Turn left and stop at the first 7.
- Open the knob or door as the mailbox instructions specify.
This is an example for this type of lock; other models differ. Use your building's instructions or the manufacturer's manual first. If it will not open, do not force it. Start over, then ask management if necessary.
“Reset first, pass 3 once, stop the second time” would have saved some head-scratching. When the numbers seem right, check whether a step before them is missing.
