Reversible Handleset Spindle Actuator And Related Method And Kit

A method for positioning a reversible handleset spindle actuator in a handleset for providing a required handed configuration for the handleset, the method comprising:

• receiving the handleset, wherein the reversible handleset spindle actuator is pre-installed providing a first handed configuration for the handleset or wherein the handleset spindle actuator is uninstalled, the spindle actuator comprising a first thumb-operated lever receiver for rotating a spindle of the spindle actuator in a first direction and a second thumb-operated lever receiver for rotating the spindle in a second direction different from the first direction;
• when the spindle actuator is pre-installed in the first handed configuration different from the required handed configuration, unscrewing the spindle actuator from the exterior escutcheon of the handleset;
• rotating the spindle actuator over the exterior escutcheon along the spindle axis for providing the required handed configuration;
• and
• once properly positioned, screwing the spindle actuator into the exterior escutcheon.

A handleset kit comprising:

• an interior escutcheon:
• an exterior escutcheon;
• and
• a reversible handleset spindle actuator configured to be installed between the exterior escutcheon and the interior escutcheon, the reversible handleset spindle actuator comprising:
• a first thumb-operated lever receiver positioned to be engaged by a thumb-operated lever connected to an exterior escutcheon of the handleset when the actuator is installed in the handleset configured for a right-handed position;
• a second thumb-operated lever receiver positioned to be engaged by the thumb-operated lever connected to the exterior escutcheon of the handleset when the actuator is installed in the handleset configured for a left-handed position;
• a spindle for operating a latch mechanism;
• a rack and pinion mechanism for:
• rotating the spindle, from an initial position, in a first direction when the first thumb-operated lever receiver is moved longitudinally towards the spindle;
• and
• rotating the spindle, from the initial position, in a second direction different from the first direction when the second thumb-operated lever receiver is moved longitudinally towards the spindle.