CRG Discussion Forum

Camaro Research Group Discussion => General Discussion => Topic started by: 69Z28-RS on March 21, 2013, 09:43:28 PM

Title: Keys from keycode?
Post by: 69Z28-RS on March 21, 2013, 09:43:28 PM
Can a locksmith make a key from my 'keycode'?   ie. the 4 digit code on the knockout?   Do any of you know a locksmith or key dealer who could make me an original set of keys using the code? 
Title: Re: Keys from keycode?
Post by: 67conv6cyl on March 21, 2013, 09:54:32 PM
Yes, Busses lock services in Raleigh, NC did that for Me.
Title: Re: Keys from keycode?
Post by: 68camaroz28 on March 21, 2013, 11:58:47 PM
We have a local guy who grew up with it (father was a locksmith) and knows his stuff but that might not do you much help not living in this area so you might want to contact Jesser's Classic Keys in Akron, OH. Does a lot of NCRS peoples keys/assistance & has a website. Phone # 330 376 8181
Title: Re: Keys from keycode?
Post by: elcamino72 on March 22, 2013, 01:05:42 AM
There is a book which some locksmiths have that have this information.  These books used to be at the dealers, but years ago the dealers gave them up and they started showing up at swap meets such as Carlisle and the locksmiths bought them up ... you may even find one on ebay from time to time, but I haven't looked.  They were marked "confidential" if I remember correctly.
Title: Re: Keys from keycode?
Post by: z28z11 on March 22, 2013, 02:03:31 AM
My '68 Z had the ignition lock changed at some point in it's career - when I got it home, I pulled the door locks out (they are coded on the lock with the key numbers) and the trunk lock (same deal) , and had my local locksmith cut new keys from the codes - worked perfectly. I found an NOS ignition lock cylinder, had him recode the lock, and did the same to the trunk/glove keys to match the codes up. Probably cost all of $30.00 to get everything right. The only problem he had was with the '68 coded key blanks - they are different from '69's, longer slot, so he had to extend the slot to get the key to fit correctly. Solved that problem by buying a couple of sets of NOS blanks on eBay - about $12.00/set. Works wonders -

Regards,
Steve
Title: Re: Keys from keycode?
Post by: MyRed67 on March 22, 2013, 04:38:35 AM
As has been stated, the 4 digit code is also stamped on the lock cylinder itself, if you wnt to double check and make sure the keys are cut to fit the lock.  Most any GOOD Locksmith knows what those codes stand for, and can cut a key.
Title: Re: Keys from keycode?
Post by: 69Z28-RS on March 22, 2013, 04:43:29 AM
when I removed my original carpet a few years ago, for replacement, under the carpet/insulation, I found a key lying there, looked 'new'..   with the little ring on it. I was initially confused, but quickly realized I found it right under the steering column..  so I tried the key in the ignition, and it worked!   then I noticed the key still had the knockout in it!   :)    So I have THE ORIGINAL key, barely used now.. :) for the ignition, but not for the other locks.    That key, and my pre-existing ignition key were 'E' code, which is correct for '69, but I just found new blanks to make additional key sets, and I learned that my trunk key is coded 'D' (which is not correct for '69, and makes me think the trunk cylinder was swapped out for a '68 lock and key).   I don't recall doing this in the '70's, so it must ahve been done prior to my purchase.   Is the key codes (ie.  E and H) actually 'judged' in the national judging?   Do I need to find a '69 trunk lock so I can have the correct key code (H), or can I just use a good '68 blank and grind it for the existing trunk key?   damn..  the most simple things turn into an 'exercise' when you are going thru one of these cars.. :)
Title: Re: Keys from keycode?
Post by: JohnZ on March 22, 2013, 02:41:25 PM
   Is the key codes (ie.  E and H) actually 'judged' in the national judging? 

I don't know about Camaro judging, but the keyway code letters are checked (and physically verified) in NCRS Corvette Flight judging.
Title: Re: Keys from keycode?
Post by: 69Z28-RS on March 22, 2013, 03:14:57 PM
Thanks John..  I suspected that. :)    ..  gives me another task to do on my car.. :)
Title: Re: Keys from keycode?
Post by: tom on March 23, 2013, 09:19:07 AM
Years back I used to go to the local locksmith and have my glove box and trunk cylinders (if i remember right) redone to work with the ignition key. One key then worked for the whole car.  Any good locksmith should be able to cut new keys from the code, but you may need to shop around if you need original blanks.
Title: Re: Keys from keycode?
Post by: jl8dale on March 25, 2013, 02:23:43 PM
I just did this 3 weeks ago on my 1970 442 as the key was falling out of the cylinder when I was cranking the engine. I pulled the cylinder and the code is stamped on the side.

The key was worn out on the end which is what holds the key in the cylinder when you turn it forward. My local locksmith charged $15.00 plus the key charge, all total about $17.00. The new key works great and when compared to the old key, a world of difference!
I had a new trunk key made too and then had duplicates made from the fresh cuts of each key.
If you don't do this, your duplicates will look and work like the old worn out keys.