mailbox lock ruminations

You are rambling. It appears that you have an old apartment mail box that uses flat steel keys. (Eagle, Lori. Bommer)

If this is so, the only real improvement would require a new mail box, and those are still subject to attack with a screwdriver.

Well, at least you're starting halfway through the story. What's the actual problem you're trying to solve?

If you want to replace apartment mailbox units (presuming you're the landlord), remember to talk to the post office since they will need to install their own lock on the door for delivering mail.

If you just want to alter/replace the locks on individual apartment boxes, that can be done but may be more trouble than it's worth -- and again, I hope you're the landlord or have cleared it with him since the mailbox is his property rented along with the apartment. If he says "no", your choices are live with it or move.

You have *no* idea how I hope this story is finished.

Why? they are cheap and although they provide minimal security it's better than none. The new little flat keys are a bit sturdier that the old little flat keys.

If someone takes the *lock* off I will replace it. The battle has been about drilling the holes in the box wall to screw the lock onto the wall. This has been done.

Was just wondering if any New Improved Versions of mailbox locks existed. Apparently not.

The newer style apartment boxes come with a newer style lock which is a little sturdier.

If you have the older style mail box that had the tabs that would break off you can do several things to effect a repair. First you can use pop rivets installed from the outside of the box, these work real good. The second choice is to buy smooth head (slotless) screws or small carriage bolts, and attach them with nuts on the inside. This prevents removing the lock easily from the outside.

Thanks muchly!