Start with a good deal of pressure and gently let up as you spin it around, until you meet resistance in only one place. If the dial catches every few numbers, you are pulling too hard. If it never catches at all, you are not pulling enough. It should catch in only one place, making a click. If the click happens when the dial is between two numbers, round up to the higher number. Add 5 to that number and write it down. This is the first number in the combination. [1] X Research source
The lock will bump and catch as you turn. Eventually the lock hit a point where it will be very difficult to turn. This stopping point is the second number. Note it on the same piece of paper. [2] X Research source
At this point there should be only forty possible combinations. You do not have to reset the first two numbers for each combination. Simply turn one number then tug. Repeat the process until the lock opens.
The lock will catch several times, allowing for slight movement back and forth between two numbers. Write down the number in the middle. For instance, if the lock catches between 33 and 35, write down 34 on a separate piece of paper. This is not necessarily the final number. The lock will also catch partway between numbers. For example, the range might be between 27. 5 and 29. 5. If the middle number is not a whole number, such as 28. 5, do not write it down. Lock combinations are always whole numbers. Proceed all the way around the dial, writing down all the whole numbers where it catches. You should have four or five numbers written down. Most of the numbers will fit a pattern, for instance all ending in 5. The one number that does not fit the pattern is the final number in your combination. [3] X Research source [4] X Research source
Usually the locking mechanism is on the left side if you are looking at the lock with the shackle on top and the dial facing you.
You should be left with a single piece of aluminum that was once the body of the can and is now a wide strip of metal.
Cut a strip a little over one inch wide. If any of the edges are ragged, trim them. [6] X Research source
Center the U in the middle of your strip. Do not cut all the way to the top.
The result should be a strip of metal that looks something like the letter M, with the middle of the M curved instead of pointed. This will be the shim.
Folding the sides allows you to have a handle on the shim that will not cut your hand with a sharp edge.
You will want to wrap the shim carefully around the outside first so it molds to the shape of the shaft. When you have got the shape you want, turn the shim so the U is on the inner part of the shackle and your handle is on the outside of it. Remember to do this on the side of the shackle that has the locking mechanism.
It will take a few minutes and you should not rush or force it. When you have worked it in as far as it will go, stop.
If the lock is attached to an object, for instance a box, retailers will likely not assist you. Be aware that the retailer may charge a fee for this service. [8] X Research source
Due to security concerns, manufacturers will likely not provide the combination over the phone or via email. You may be required to furnish proof that you own the lock, such as a notarized document certifying your ownership. [9] X Research source
If the lock is attached to something, for instance a locker, be prepared to furnish proof that you have a right to access the belongings within the locker. [10] X Research source
