How to Install a Cam Lock: A Professional Locksmith’s Guide
Published Date: Oct 2, 2025
Got a new mailbox or cabinet and the latch won’t stay shut? You probably need a camlock. This guide from Sure Lock & Key explains how to install a cam lock in plain language, with quick checks so you don’t backtrack. Ready to fix it right the first time? Keep reading — your clean, secure fit starts here.
What Exactly Is a Camlock?
A camlock is a small lock with a cylindrical body and a rotating metal arm, known as a ‘cam.’ Turn the key and the cam swings behind a frame or strike to hold the door or panel. Rotate it back to release. Because the cam grabs with a quick quarter-turn and the body tightens with a simple nut and washer, camlocks are common on desks, filing cabinets, and mailboxes.
Still choosing hardware? Compare this option with other solutions in our types of locks guide.
Understanding Your Cam Lock Assembly and Dimensions
Before you drill, identify the cam lock parts and confirm your measurements. A typical camlock includes the cylinder (the part the key turns), retaining nut, cam (rotating arm), and cam screw (holds the arm). Many cam locks use wafer cylinders — see our wafer lock basics to understand how the key moves the wafers inside.
Start by checking the cam lock dimensions. You will need two key measurements:
- Cylinder length: The length of the threaded body. It should be long enough that the nut catches a few full threads.
- Cam length: Measure from the center of the mounting hole to the tip of the cam. It must reach and catch the frame or strike.
What tools will you need for the installation? Grab a few basics:
- Drill with a bit (or step bit) sized to the cylinder
- Tape measure or ruler
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdriver
Take a minute to double-check measurements and parts layout. This prep makes the cam lock fitting smoother and helps prevent mistakes.
A Step-by-Step Guide for a Secure Cam Lock Fitting
Got your tools and measurements? Here’s how to install cam lock hardware the right way. These steps work for office furniture, retail displays, and mailboxes. Rolling this out across multiple fixtures? Our commercial locksmith services can handle planning and installation at scale.
- Mark Your Spot: Decide where the lock sits and pencil the hole center. Make sure the cam will catch the frame or strike when locked. Note the cam style (straight or offset) and the rotation you need.
- Drill the Hole: Drill straight through at your mark using a bit or step bit sized to the cylinder (check the spec). Keep the drill perpendicular and deburr the edges for a clean seat.
- Insert the Lock Body: Slide the threaded lock body through the hole from the outside. The head of the lock should sit flush against the surface.
- Secure the Lock: From the inside, slide the fastening nut over the lock body and tighten it with your wrench. Make it snug, but be careful not to overtighten and damage the wood or metal.
- Attach the Cam: Place the cam onto the back of the lock body, pointing it in the direction it needs to turn to lock. Secure it with the screw. Check that the key turns smoothly and the cam moves into locked/unlocked positions without rubbing.
Managing several locations? Partner with Sure Lock & Key — your trusted commercial locksmith.
Your Guide to a Secure Cam Lock Installation
A camlock pays off when the basics are right: measure twice, match cylinder and cam length to the panel, drill straight, deburr, seat the body flush, snug the nut, set the cam, and test. If you came here to learn how to install cam lock hardware, keep this guide close and follow the steps.
If something still feels off, don’t force it — flip the cam, swap to an offset, or recheck length. Need a hand or a second opinion? Let Sure Lock & Key do the job. We’ve spent more than 35 years solving everyday lock and key problems with care and consistency. Expect respectful service and advice you can use.