August Lock: Fixing Excessive Turnpiece Play or Wiggle -... | digitalhomefaults.org

Technical Background:

The August Lock relies on a geared DC motor to actuate the deadbolt via the turnpiece. The turnpiece shaft is directly coupled to the motor's output. Excessive play indicates wear in the gearing, slippage in the coupling, or a loose mounting of the motor within the lock housing. Backlash in the gearing contributes to rotational free play. Mechanical resistance increases motor current draw.

Symptoms:

Excessive rotational play in the turnpiece mechanism. User reports of looseness or wobble when manually rotating the lock. App logs show intermittent 'Manual Unlock' events without user initiation. No LED error codes observed during normal operation. Audible clicking or grinding sounds may be present.

Possible Causes:

Stripped or worn gears within the internal motor assembly.
Loose set screws or failing adhesive bond on the turnpiece shaft coupling.
Warped door frame causing excessive pressure on the deadbolt, increasing resistance.
Misalignment between the August Lock and the deadbolt strike plate.
Cold weather contraction causing dimensional changes in the lock components.
Weakened spring tension in the turnpiece detent mechanism.

Solution:

1

*Inspect Turnpiece Coupling:** Remove the August Lock faceplate and examine the coupling between the turnpiece shaft and the motor. Tighten any loose set screws or replace the coupling if damaged.
2

*Check Door Frame Alignment:** Verify that the door frame is square and the deadbolt aligns correctly with the strike plate. Shim the strike plate if necessary.
3

*Lubricate Deadbolt Mechanism:** Apply a silicone-based lubricant to the deadbolt and strike plate to reduce friction. Avoid oil-based lubricants, which can attract dust.
4

*Motor Replacement:** If the gears within the motor are worn, replace the entire motor assembly. Consult the August Lock service manual for part numbers.
5

*Factory Reset & Recalibration:** Perform a factory reset of the lock and recalibrate the deadbolt position using the August app. Ensure the door is fully closed during calibration.
6

*Battery Check:** Replace the batteries with fresh lithium batteries. Low battery voltage can cause erratic motor operation, especially in cold weather.
7

*Firmware Update:** Check for and install any available firmware updates via the August app. Updates may include improvements to motor control algorithms.

Safety Warning:

Always disconnect power before disassembling the August Lock. Improper disassembly can damage the lock and void the warranty. Ensure the door is securely locked before leaving the premises. Implement two-factor authentication on your August account.

Prevention:

- Regularly lubricate the deadbolt mechanism to minimize wear. - Inspect the door frame alignment annually, especially after extreme temperature fluctuations. - Replace batteries proactively before winter to ensure optimal performance in cold weather. - Keep the lock housing clean and free of debris. - Monitor battery health via the August app and replace batteries when indicated.

Expert Tip:

Apply a small amount of blue Loctite to the turnpiece set screws after tightening to prevent them from loosening over time. Use a T6 Torx bit for the set screws.

Frequently Asked Questions

•How often should I replace the batteries in my August Lock in a cold climate?

In areas with prolonged sub-zero temperatures, consider replacing batteries every 6-9 months, even if the app indicates a higher charge. Cold significantly reduces battery capacity.

•What type of lubricant is best for the deadbolt mechanism in an August Lock?

Use a silicone-based lubricant specifically designed for locks. Avoid oil-based lubricants, as they can attract dust and grime, leading to further wear.

•My August lock keeps disconnecting from Wi-Fi. Could this be related to the turnpiece issue?

While seemingly unrelated, excessive mechanical resistance can increase the lock's power consumption, potentially affecting Wi-Fi performance. Address the turnpiece issue and then troubleshoot the Wi-Fi connection separately, checking RSSI values near the lock.

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

•How often should I replace the batteries in my August Lock in a cold climate?

•What type of lubricant is best for the deadbolt mechanism in an August Lock?

•My August lock keeps disconnecting from Wi-Fi. Could this be related to the turnpiece issue?

Related Questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: