All Winkhaus gearboxes, apart from the AV4 measure 185mm high x backset + 15mm, making them the smallest gearboxes on the market. They measure 64mm between the latch and deadbolt and 63mm from the spindle to the top of the gearbox. They also feature a groove above the spindle to aid in the fitment of handles with a screw above the lever.
Winkhaus Cobra locks always feature a latch and deadbolt in the gearbox. They are available in lift lever, split spindle and key wind operation. These are easily identifiable by the sticker on the side of the gearbox. If the writing is blue, that's lift lever, if its green, then the lock is split spindle, whereas red means key wind. We often will only stock the green, split spindle locks, where both a lift lever and split spindle version are available. That's because the split spindle can be used as a lever operated lock by inserting a solid spindle all the way through the follower. There's also no price difference between the locks, so the added versatility of the split spindle lock makes it a suitable replacement for a larger range of locks.
Winkhaus gearboxes are attached to the faceplate with a set of rivets. These can be easily removed and replaced for gearbox swaps but makes Winkhaus relatively unique (and therefore easier to identify) in the market. Please refer to our guide and video on how to replace a Winkhaus gearbox for full details.
Please note that you may have encountered a really old Winkhaus gearbox that is attached to the faceplate with screws, with a passivated yellow finish. The sticker on the side (red = key wind and blue = lift lever) will denote the operation of the lock. These locks were handed and are no longer available.
We stock a range of associated products for Winkhaus Cobra gearboxes, including multipoint door locks, keeps, spindles, handles and accessories.
Operation: Lift lever or split spindle
Latch reversal: Push in latch and a screw will appear in the back of the lockcase. Undo the screw to remove the latch. Reverse, reinsert and replace the screw.
Nightlatch reversal: The small rectangular slot adjacent to side of the spindle hole contains a hollow black roll pin. Insert a flat bladed screwdriver and push the pin to opposite side to reverse function.
Winkhaus cases are held on by pin rivets which are on the side of the case(1 top 1 bottom) - to remove simply knock the pins out with a punch, the orginals can usaully be re-used however we do sell replacement pin rivets should you require.
To lock the door
1. On closing the door, the latch is automatically engaged.
2. Lift the handle up to engage the additional locking points.
3. Throw the deadbolt and lock the system by turning the key (on some brands, the deadbolt will be thrown by lifting the handle).
To unlock the door
1. Unlock the system by turning the key.
2. Push the handle downwards to disengage the locking points.
3. A further quarter turn of the key will retract the latch.