I guess it would be worth looking into how to replace safe parts but I really don't like the idea of a manual dial versus electric, they are really a pain to use day to day and I like being able to reprogram mine. Have 3 of the same tractor supply model and am about to get a 4th.
Changing a dial combination is easy but requires a special tool - generally the U8 or U9 S&G combination change key - both work, the U9 is longer for use if you are reaching the lock through a panel you leave in place. Once you've become comfortable with the combo opening should take about 10 seconds if you always spin the dial 4 times to the left when locking so it is prepped to dial in the numbers.
Be careful ordering combo locks on the internet, and they are frequently take-offs from safes, not new stock.
#1: There are multiple models of S&G 3 wheel locks. You'll rarely see a 66xx series (Group IIm), and don't really need anything beyond Group II on a gun safe. S&G makes a regular 3 wheel Group II that is the de facto standard (6730) and a el-cheapo version with zinc, er I mean zymac, wheels and levers (6741). If you want to be sure, have the seller show you a photo of the lock with the back off - if the wheels and lever are gray instead of brass, you have the cheapo price-point version. If they are red, you have a Big Red
Big Redâ„¢ Safe Locks - Mechanical Safe Locks which is an upstart competitor of S&G that looks pretty decent.
#2: Many are take-offs from gun safes being "upgraded" to electronic. The spindle is attached to the lock by a press-fit single use piece called the "spline key". Do NOT try to re-use these; just get a new one. Better - have a few handy when you install in case you have to goof and pull the spline key out. When buying a take-off lock be sure to ask if it comes with a new spline key or just the one taken off when de-installing the lock. mbusa.com sells these for $1.34 each (plus shipping)
S&G SPLINE KEY - 6600, 6700, 8500
#3: The combo change comes in the package with the lock, but often does not come with the safe. Eastern Security does not include this by default and downgrades your warranty if you insist - but despite being called a "key" it is really a "tool" so one fits all locks of a particular series. If the vendor is selling a take-off, you may need to include a combon change tool along with your spline key order.
S&G CHANGE KEY - 3 WHEEL
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This tool is really quite interesting:
Phoenix 4.0 | Taylor Technologies
It will open most of the common brand name electronic locks, except the ones with federal standards approval (Kaba-Mas X-##series; S&g 2740). The consumer grade locks "leak" information when buttons are pressed. There are differences in things like current draw, duration of draw, time for led to come on, etc. depending on the validity of what is entered. When I asked the regional S&G rep if this tool could actually open an S&G Titan D-Drive, I was told "yes, but you are in greater danger from more common threats". I still don't understand why UL allows these locks to continue to have a Group I manipulation proof rating, or why that is not usually a Group I-R (given they ignore the Phoenix technique).