How to Replace a Cord Lock in a Wood or Faux Wood Blind

Video ID: 101008

Introduction

The cord lock on a wood or faux wood blind controls the lifting and lowering of the blind slats. Replace the cord lock if the lock is no longer catching the cord for lift and lowering operation, or if the cord lock is damaged and causing the blind to not operate correctly.

A Note on Safety

Kids can strangle in blind cords. To make your blinds safer for kids, keep cords out of reach and secure cord and bead chain loops. To learn more, please visit our child safety guide.

Tools Needed

Flat-head screwdriver

Wire restring tool

Parts Needed

Cord lock

Step 1 – Twist the valance clip into the slot on the back of the valance.

Take the blind down from your window and lay it on a flat surface.
Remove any tassels and safety washers from the pull cord.
Take the pull cord out of the cord lock by pulling it out towards the center of the blind.

Step 2 – Remove the end cap closest to the cord lock.

Remove the end cap by pulling out and away from the headrail. If this is difficult, use pliers or the handle of a screw driver to nudge it out by lightly tapping it from the inside.

Step 3 – Remove the cord lock, and replace it with the new cord lock.

Using a flathead screwdriver, remove the old cord lock by wedging the lock from the headrail.
Insert the new cord lock by setting it in place against the front face of the headrail.

Step 4 – Insert your wire restring tool through the bottom of the cord lock and through the gears.

Pull cord through the eye of the wire tool.
Insert your cord through the eye of the wire tool and pull it through towards the bottom of the blind.

Step 5 – Reassemble the end stiffeners, safety washers, and tassels.

Reassemble the safety washers by attaching them to the lift cord.
Attach the tassels by tying a knot in the cord.

Recommendations for Child Safety:

The lifting cords should be no more than 40% the total length of the blind.
Consider installing safety washers on each lifting cord.
Leave each cord hanging separately. Do not tie them together.
Use cleats to keep cords out of the reach of children.

Step 6 – Test your blind.

Test your blind by remounting it and pulling on the lift cords to make sure it locks and releases correctly.