Van Deadlocks
Fitting Service

Vans are the type of commercial vehicle that have been consistently targeted by thieves in the UK for many years.

 

Most opportunistic thieves are looking for a van without any additional locks fitted, and just OE (Original Equipment) standard manufacturer locks. Our experience has shown us that unfortunately many OE locks are not fully resistant to the kinds of attacks made on them and can be forced in seconds rather than minutes by even the most inexperienced thieves, leaving van owners and their belongings at the mercy of these locks.


Additional lock security can, unfortunately, be an afterthought despite the range of security options available. Many of our clients choose to protect their commercial vehicles from the get-go and take comfort from the additional protection deadlocks provide. Because deadlocks are installed independently from the existing manufacturer locks they also provide a strong visual deterrent to thieves looking for an easy target.

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What are
van deadlocks?

Van deadlocks are additional mechanical locks that are installed independently to the existing manufacturer locks. They are operated by an additional key (provided with the lock). Van deadlocks are often requested by our customers looking to affordably protect their vehicle from break-in or theft.

 

In recent years technology has advanced to meet demand for increased protection from the high levels of van theft and forced entries. The quality of van deadlocks has therefore of necessity improved. Deadlocks remain resistant to most break-in attempts and, as previously mentioned, are sometimes a deterrent alone.

Van deadlocks are one of the most popular choices of van security locks in the UK

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How do van deadlocks work?

Once engaged with an additional key (external additional keys are provided with the lock) van deadlocks work by projecting a single strong deadbolt or hook bolt across the mechanism directly into the internal receiving bracket, which is installed on the opposite van door or door pillar. This creates an additional locking point in the frame of your van door, greatly bolstering the integrity of the van door. It is also worth noting that if a thief were to try and break-in by breaking the glass on a glazed door, that the deadlock would still need unlocking separately by use of the external key to open the door. This means entry and exit to the vehicle would still be greatly hindered even if a window is breached. Because the deadlock does not operate with a spring mechanism like most OE locks do, it cannot be punched or spiked. This is another additional security benefit of van deadlocks.

How do van deadlocks work?

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Once engaged with an additional key (external additional keys are provided with the lock) van deadlocks work by projecting a single strong deadbolt or hook bolt across the mechanism directly into the internal receiving bracket, which is installed on the opposite van door or door pillar. This creates an additional locking point in the frame of your van door, greatly bolstering the integrity of the van door. It is also worth noting that if a thief were to try and break-in by breaking the glass on a glazed door, that the deadlock would still need unlocking separately by use of the external key to open the door. This means entry and exit to the vehicle would still be greatly hindered even if a window is breached. Because the deadlock does not operate with a spring mechanism like most OE locks do, it cannot be punched or spiked. This is another additional security benefit of van deadlocks.

Where can van deadlocks
be installed?

The locks are fitted in a high position as standard, wherever possible. Not all vans can have locks fitted high up, because of their door shape. Every installation is bespoke, but we’ve fitted locks to a wide range of popular van makes and models and have a solution for every van we service. 

Low level fitting to strengthen van sliding door for added security

High position fitting to strengthen van sliding door weak point

Deadlocks can be fitted along door seal line

High position fitting to strengthen van door weak points

Low level fitting to strengthen van sliding door for added security

Deadlocks can

be fitted along

door seal line

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High position fitting to strengthen van door weak points
Lower position fitting for added security

Which key can be used with this lock?

T-series key 

This is a robust, double sided, dimple cut key key that doesn’t compromise on anything. Resistant to rust and snapping, the T-series key is made entirely from nickel silver. Built for high frequency everyday use. For this reason we fit all slamlocks and Statement locks as standard on a T-series key and we recommend this key to customers who know they will likely use their deadlocks very frequently. T-series keys are available for deadlocks, slamlocks, Statement lock and Replock applications.

S-series key 

Made from chrome-plated brass, the S-series key is a strong standard cut Yale type key that compromises on price but not on quality. Built for everyday use, the S-series key is nickel plated to avoid deterioration and corrosion. Please note this key type is not available on slam lock applications.
Deadlock keys
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High position fitting
to strengthen van
door weak points

Mid position fitting
to strengthen van
door weak points

Which key can be used with this lock?

T-series key 

This is a robust, double sided, dimple cut key key that doesn’t compromise on anything. Resistant to rust and snapping, the T-series key is made entirely from nickel silver. Built for high frequency everyday use. For this reason we fit all slamlocks and Statement locks as standard on a T-series key and we recommend this key to customers who know they will likely use their deadlocks very frequently. T-series keys are available for deadlocks, slamlocks, Statement lock and Replock applications.

S-series key 

Made from chrome-plated brass, the S-series key is a strong standard cut Yale type key that compromises on price but not on quality. Built for everyday use, the S-series key is nickel plated to avoid deterioration and corrosion. Please note this key type is not available on slam lock applications.

Hook-locking deadlocks

When installing deadlocks we always give the customer the choice of going with hook locks.

Because of how hook locks are designed, they can ensure stronger structural integrity for frames and door installations, lending even more security to your new deadlock. As with our standard deadlock, hook-locking deadlocks are protected from corrosion, rust and deterioration with satin nickel plating. This ensures a smooth, consistent operation and durable performance.

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High quality van deadlocks

All of the locks we use are plated in highly durable satin nickel, to maintain a long lasting appearance. External trims are available in either black nylon (as standard), or satin nickel-plated brass (on request), to maintain the aesthetic appearance of the vehicle. Keeps and brackets are finished in textured powder coat black to prevent corrosion, and all bare metal is treated with Waxoyl, and the locks neatly siliconed to prevent rust.

High quality van deadlocks

All of the locks we use are plated in highly durable satin nickel, to maintain a long lasting appearance. External trims are available in either black nylon (as standard), or satin nickel-plated brass (on request), to maintain the aesthetic appearance of the vehicle. Keeps and brackets are finished in textured powder coat black to prevent corrosion, and all bare metal is treated with Waxoyl, and the locks neatly siliconed to prevent rust.

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What is the difference between deadlocks and slamlocks?

A deadlock is an additional lock that is fitted to the door to provide an additional locking point. This can be locked and unlocked with a key, allowing the driver/owner to leave each door locked or unlocked. The slamlock locks the door as soon as it closes. Once the door is shut it locks automatically and can only be opened by the key or the internal release handle. This is usually done by disconnecting the cable that goes to the handle and connecting it directly to the slamlock.

What is the difference between deadlocks and slamlocks?

A deadlock is an additional lock that is fitted to the door to provide an additional locking point. This can be locked and unlocked with a key, allowing the driver/owner to leave each door locked or unlocked. The slamlock locks the door as soon as it closes. Once the door is shut it locks automatically and can only be opened by the key or the internal release handle. This is usually done by disconnecting the cable that goes to the handle and connecting it directly to the slamlock.

Why choose Lockwell Security?

We have over 25 years experience in installing van security products and providing vehicle security consultation to a wide range of clients in the Kent area. We are experienced lock fitters and provide excellent customer service.

Why choose
Lockwell Security?

We have over 25 years experience in installing van security products and providing vehicle security consultation to a wide range of clients in the Kent area. We are experienced lock fitters and provide excellent customer service.

Van Deadlock FAQs

Van deadlocks are very secure, especially the hook locking deadlocks. The only locks that provide more security are the externally fitted locks, like the Ultimate and Statement locks

Van deadlocks are fitted by cutting a slot in the edge of the door for the lockcase to go in, then cutting a hole in the outside of the van for the key barrel to go into. We then treat the bare metal with Waxoyl and fit the lockcase and barrel into the door. Then cut a slot in the vans door pillar for the bolt/hook to locate into, then treat with Waxoyl and fit the door keep plate.

All the van deadlocks are bespoke, so each kit is designed to fit a specific make and model.

Vans with deadlocks can be broken into, but a lot of damage has to be done to do it, and it is usually the vans’ metalwork that gives way, rather than the lock.

Some insurance companies recognise the benefits of having deadlocks fitted, but not all. We advise contacting your insurance provider for specifics on how a specialist lock will affect your insurance price.

Wherever possible. Some vans can’t have hook locks fitted to the cab doors, as there are Boron strengthening bars within the door pillars, which form part of the vehicle’s safety structure. Also, if the van is very old, the lock manufacturers do not produce a hook locking kit, or bracket to allow a hook lock to be fitted.

Yes, there are multiple ways to secure your van other than a van lock. While a van lock is the first line of defence when it comes to theft, you can also implement lock shielding options, such as internal or external anti-drill plates, as well as taking the precautionary measure of locking your tools away out of sight in a secure container

Yes, the ULTIMATE is available as a deadlock and is the only van lock to pass Sold Secure Gold testing, currently making it the most secure van lock on the market. Its features include special internal fixtures to prevent it from being torn off the door, and a hardened steel locking hook bolt, which is entirely enclosed to protect it from tampering.

It depends on your budget, but the cost of the lock is inexpensive in comparison to the cost of the contents of most vans and the cost of repairing the damage of the vans door and/or the manufacturers door lock following a break-in. All locks and shielding products vary in price, please get in touch with your requirements

Van deadlocks can be fitted on every door. On the rear barn doors of vans, the lock is usually fitted into the first opening door and lock into a bracket on the other door.

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