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 the lift lever, if it's 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: Key wind
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.
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To lock the door
1. On closing the door, the latch is automatically engaged.
2. Turn the key to throw and engage or "wind" out the locking points.
To unlock the door
1. Turn the key to unlock the door by "unwinding" the locking points.
2. A further quarter turn of the key will retract the latch.