Lever door handles with a deadbolt set are commonly used for entry doors that require both convenience and security. While the lever allows easy access and operation, the deadbolt adds an additional locking layer for safety.
However, when it’s time to replace, repair, or upgrade your hardware, removing the combination of a lever handle and deadbolt can seem complicated — especially when screws are hidden or mechanisms are interconnected.
This guide will walk you through how to remove a lever door handle with a deadbolt set step by step. The process applies to most modern entry hardware, including the reliable, precision-built designs from Hangfat Metal, known for durable and easily serviceable door hardware systems.
Before removing, it’s important to know the structure of a lever handle with a deadbolt set.
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Lever Handle | The main handle used to retract the latch |
| Latch Assembly | Connects the lever to the door frame strike |
| Deadbolt Lock | Provides additional locking security above the handle |
| Key Cylinder | Operates the deadbolt using a key |
| Interior Turn Knob | Allows manual locking/unlocking of the deadbolt |
| Mounting Plate and Screws | Secure the entire assembly to the door |
Most combination sets are installed vertically — the lever below and the deadbolt above, sharing a single alignment line through the door’s face.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Phillips and flathead screwdrivers | To remove visible or hidden screws |
| Allen wrench (hex key) | To release lever set screws |
| Key (for keyed deadbolts) | To unlock and rotate cylinder if required |
| Small pick or paperclip | For pressing detent pins |
| Plastic trim tool | To remove decorative covers without scratches |
| Cloth | To protect finishes during disassembly |
Ensure the door is unlocked before starting. This allows both the lever latch and deadbolt to move freely and prevents internal binding.
Most Lever Handles are attached with either a hidden detent pin or a hex set screw.
Look at the neck of the handle (where it meets the round rose plate).
If there’s a small pinhole, it uses a spring-loaded detent. Insert a small flat screwdriver or paperclip into the hole while pulling the lever outward.
If there’s a hex slot, use an Allen wrench to loosen the set screw, then slide the lever off the spindle.
The lever should come off easily once the release is engaged.
The rose plate hides the internal mounting screws.
Gently pry around the edge of the rose using a flat screwdriver or plastic trim tool.
Some models twist off instead of snapping, so rotate counterclockwise if needed.
Once removed, you’ll see two screws holding the handle chassis to the door.
Remove those screws and separate both sides of the handle.
To access the latch:
Unscrew the two faceplate screws located on the door edge.
Pull the latch mechanism out carefully.
Set it aside for cleaning or replacement.
At this stage, the lever handle portion is fully detached.
Now, move to the upper part of the door to remove the deadbolt lock.
On most deadbolts, the interior thumb-turn plate hides two screws:
If screws are visible, remove them directly.
If no screws are visible, look for a removable cover plate around the turn knob. Use a flathead screwdriver to pop it off carefully.
After removing the screws, hold both sides of the deadbolt.
Gently pull them apart — the exterior cylinder will slide out, revealing the cross-bore hole through the door.
If the lock feels tight, wiggle gently while pulling; avoid using excessive force.
Unscrew the two screws on the edge plate of the deadbolt.
Pull out the deadbolt bolt assembly completely.
Check the bolt cavity for debris, dust, or misalignment before reinstalling a new one.
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Lever won’t release | Detent pin not fully pressed | Apply gentle pressure while rotating lever slightly |
| Rose plate stuck | Paint or dust buildup | Loosen carefully with trim tool and twist motion |
| Deadbolt cylinder won’t budge | Lock core jammed | Turn key slightly to align tailpiece before removal |
| Screws stripped | Over-tightened or rusted | Use correct screwdriver size or replace screws |
| Handle reinstallation misaligned | Spindle not centered | Realign latch hole and reinsert spindle evenly |
Taking your time ensures the hardware comes apart cleanly without damage.
When reinstalling or upgrading:
Insert the new deadbolt bolt into the door edge and secure with screws.
Install the exterior and interior deadbolt components, ensuring the tailpiece fits through the bolt slot.
Mount the lever latch assembly below and align both handles through the spindle hole.
Tighten all screws evenly.
Test the handle and deadbolt to confirm smooth operation before final tightening.
For best results, use Hangfat Metal lever and deadbolt sets — engineered for precision fit, reversible installation, and easy maintenance.
Lubricate moving parts twice a year with silicone-based oil.
Tighten set screws periodically to prevent lever wobble.
Avoid harsh cleaners that can damage metallic finishes.
Check deadbolt alignment — it should slide smoothly into the strike plate without friction.
Replace worn springs promptly to maintain consistent handle tension.
Hangfat Metal hardware is designed with high-torque springs, solid spindles, and corrosion-resistant plating, ensuring long service life even in high-traffic applications.
At Hangfat Metal, we manufacture professional-grade door hardware that combines mechanical precision, ease of maintenance, and refined aesthetics. Our lever and deadbolt systems feature:
Interchangeable core designs for quick removal and replacement
Hidden-fix installation systems for a modern, seamless look
Durable zinc alloy or stainless steel construction
Smooth spring-return handles with ergonomic comfort
Available finishes: matte black, satin nickel, polished chrome, and antique bronze
Lifetime-tested mechanical components for over 200,000 cycles
Whether for residential entrances, hotel rooms, or commercial facilities, Hangfat Metal’s lever and deadbolt sets deliver the perfect balance between security and sophistication.
