Conversion of old type door lock to new one

The old door knob/lock is the type that has a box inside the door. This is an exterior door. We have no key for it; we have never had the k ey since acquiring the house. If you are familiar with these old door locks, you know a metal box is placed inside a cut-out in the door. In contrast, modern door locks simply require a hole drilled through the door and a hole in the side/edge of the door for the latch.

So, I'm wondering whether a conversion is possible and how it would be done.

Note:l I'm posting via smartphone and see no way to attach a photo. Frustrating.

 

You can remove the mortise lock and in its place glue in a block of wood the same size as the mortise lock.

 

I see. And then, drill the holes for the knob and the latch. Thanks.

 

Yes.
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Hi,
Follow the directions giving. I would then add a door sleeve. Makes it stronger and looks better.
Good Luck Woodbutcher

 

Also, make the plug out of the same type of wood as the door and run the grain in the same direction.