How To Install 8 Shaped IC Core SFIC Cylinder Cylindrical Leverset

ANSI Grade 2 Best Access Commercial Door Lock with Small 8-shaped American Standard Lock Cylinder IC Core SFIC CYLINDER

Installing an "8-shaped" IC (Interchangeable Core) cylinder, specifically a SFIC (Small Format Interchangeable Core), into a cylindrical lever set is a common task for locksmiths and facility managers. Here’s a step-by-step guide.

Tools & Parts You'll Need:

1. SFIC Core: The "8-shaped" or "figure-8" core itself.

2. SFIC Control Key: The key that removes/inserts the core.

3. Compatible Lever Set: The cylindrical lockset (e.g., Schlage, Arrow, Best, Falcon, etc.) must be designed to accept a SFIC cylinder. The housing in the lever will have a large, figure-8 shaped hole.

4. Plug Follower (Optional but Recommended): A tool to hold the lever's internal parts in place when the core is out.

5. Small Screwdriver: For the retainer screw.

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Step-by-Step Installation Guide

1. Prepare the Lever Set

· If the lever is already installed on a door, unlock it and remove the interior handle/rose (usually by depressing a retainer clip or loosening a set screw).

· This will expose the latch assembly and the back of the lever's chassis where the cylinder inserts.

· If the lever is new and in your hand, simply locate the large threaded cylinder housing on the interior half.

2. Remove the Existing Core (If Present)

· Insert the Control Key into the core and turn it clockwise (usually 15-45 degrees) until it stops. This aligns the control lug.

· While holding the turn, pull the core straight out. If it's stiff, a slight wiggle may help.

· Pro Tip: Immediately insert a plug follower into the now-empty cavity to keep any springs, pins, or the cam from shifting. If you don't have one, work quickly and carefully.

3. Prepare the New SFIC Core

· Verify: Your new SFIC core should have two keyways:

  · Operating Shear Line: For the change/keying keys that lock/unlock the door.

  · Control Shear Line: For the control key that removes the core.

· Ensure you have both the Control Key and at least one Operating Key that works in the core.

4. Insert the New SFIC Core

· If you used a plug follower, remove it.

· Take your new SFIC core.

· Insert the Control Key and turn it to the same position you used for removal (this retracts the control lug).

· With the key in this position, carefully align the core's shape with the figure-8 hole in the lever housing and push it firmly in until it seats fully. You should hear/feel a solid click.

· Important: The core's tailpiece (the small metal piece at the back) must align with and engage the cam or latch mechanism of the lever set. This is what turns the latch when you use the key.

5. Secure the Core

· Once the core is fully seated, return the Control Key to the 12 o'clock position and remove it.

· The core is now locked into the housing via its own retaining lug. Most SFIC levers also have a small retainer screw on the side of the cylinder housing. Tighten this screw securely. This prevents the entire core assembly from spinning under heavy key torque.

6. Test the Installation Thoroughly

· Test with the Operating Key:

  · Insert an Operating Key. It should turn counter-clockwise to retract the latch.

  · It should return smoothly to the 12 o'clock position.

· Test with the Control Key:

  · Insert the Control Key. It should turn clockwise to the removal position, allowing you to pull the core out.

  · This confirms the core is property seated on both shear lines.

· Test the Lever Handle:

  · The interior lever should always open the latch.

  · The exterior lever should be locked/unlocked by the position of the core (turned by the key).

7. Re-assemble the Lever onto the Door (If applicable)

· Slide the interior half of the lever back onto the door, ensuring the tailpiece and chassis align with the latch in the door edge.

· Secure it with the provided screws or clip.

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Critical Safety & Compatibility Notes

· SFIC is a Standard: SFIC cores are standardized, but always verify that your lever set's brand is compatible with SFIC (most major brands are).

· Control Key Security: The Control Key is a master administrative key. Guard it closely. Anyone with it can remove all your cores.

· Don't Force It: If the core doesn't slide in easily, don't hammer it. Remove it, re-insert the control key, ensure it's turned to the correct position, and try again. Check for misalignment of the tailpiece and cam.

· Locksmith Advice: If you are keying the core yourself, you need specialized knowledge and pinning kits. For most users, cores are purchased pre-keyed to a specific system (Best, Arrow, etc.).

By following these steps, you can successfully install an SFIC core into your cylindrical lever set, enabling easy core replacement for re-keying or master key system changes.

In order to make our products more competitive and enhance customers confidence, we have obtained the following product quality certifications:

UL Certificated R41359 and CE for door closer,

UL Certificated R41361 ,SA46258 for panic exit device,

UL Certificated R41383 and EN1935:2002 for Hinges,

UL Certificated R41710 for American and lock，

CE for Mortise lock，

EN1906:2012 for Handles,

EN12209:2016 for Locks and so on.