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Photo 3 shows the sidebar elements. If the wave pattern is correct for that lock cylinder, notches in the security pins will be held in a straight line. The ‘V’ shaped, hardened locking side bar is then moved into the aligned notches as turning pressure is exerted on the key. If either the key cuts or wave pattern is incorrect, the plug will not turn.
Key blank wave milling and installation of the security pins is completed at the Marks factory. In a keying alike or masterkeying situation, locksmiths will only have to pin the plug using traditional pins from a standard pin kit of their choice. If you are familiar with the sidebar locking system proven for over 50 years on GM vehicles, then you already have some idea about how the security pins and sidebar interact in the Marks USA Hi-Security system.
Marks Hi-Security cylinders will initially be available as mortise/rim (photo 4), key-in-knob (photo 5), Small format interchangeable core (SFIC) (photo 6) and large format interchangeable core to replace Schlage. 1 1/8” mortise cylinders are drilled and tapped to accept rim cylinder screws. Packaging contains all parts to quickly convert the cylinder for mortise or rim usage. Optional cylinders with protective hardened material installed are available to meet UL437 anti-drilling requirements. Mortise cylinders are available in lengths from 1” to 1 3/4”.
Spacing and depths for the SFIC cylinders use the same keying dimensions as other A2 systems. Marks SFIC cylinders are available in six pin or seven pin lengths. Standard SFIC pinning kits can be used to combinate Marks USA Hi-Security locks.
One notable difference with Marks Hi-Security SFIC cylinders concerns the rods which connect the cylinder tailpiece to the lock cylinder. The left rod must be shortened because the locking sidebar occupies some of the space used by a normal length rod. Marks sells a special tool for this job. A twist of the wrist removes the correct rod portion. Four security pins are used in the SFIC cylinders in order to make space for the shortened rod. Present SFIC cylinders have individual screw retainers to cap the pins and springs. Plans call for a later version which will use press-in capping discs.
