I bought the Rick Steves TSA approved combination lock and can't get it to work. I just took it out of the package and must have turned the dial the wrong way or something, but now I can't get it to close. I didn't even get a chance to choose my own combination, and the stock code 000 doesn't work. Has anyone else had troubles with these? Any advice on how to fix?
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23296 posts
Generally it takes some effort to change the combo so I doubt if you accidentally change the combo. Could be defective. However, a TSA lock is of limited value. It is only useful within the US. If used in Europe they do not have TSA locks. Just use plastic cable ties. Just as effective and much, much cheaper.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32214 posts
Emily,
Given your location, you might take a short trip to Edmonds to either exchange the Lock or sort the difficulties with the one you have.
As I recall, the shackle has to be rotated and depressed in order to change the combination. If you didn't do that, the factory preset combination should work? It's certainly possible the Lock is defective, but I suspect it's just a very simple issue.
Good luck!
Posted by
Freedonia
15096 posts
I have one of those locks. The combo shows on three sides. The only way it will work is if the right combination is showing on the "thin" side rather than the two larger ones.
If you did not intentionally set a combination, then the lock is probably defective because it's not that easy to set a new combination without trying.
The RS store will replace it.
Posted by
Atlanta, GA, USA
2745 posts
And realistically... it's a waste of your money.
If the TSA can open these assume every thief around can too.
Remember at LAX baggage handlers were arrested for "stealing" things seen on the xrays. Who looks at the XRAYS? The TSA.. Hmmm...
I have never used one and never had anything taken. I also don't pack anything a thief wants!
Posted by
San Jose, CA, USA
423 posts
I bought a RS combo lock (with a small wire) and had I could not set the combo. I can still use it with the default 000 code but that's not good. If you get a solution, I would be interested too.
Posted by
Freedonia
15096 posts
Gela, on the underside of the lock you'll see a small silver "button." Press that button in all the way--you'll have to use a pen or something pointy--and while it's held in you can set your combination (make sure you're looking at the correct side for the combination.) Once you release the button, the combination will be set.