I wonder if this might be some kind of a non-OEM lock cylinder that came pre-***embled, coded and with new working keys? A cheaper alternative to having new GM cylinders recoded? Something that a used car dealer might have favored? Maybe it only uses 2 or 3 tumblers in the positions where those plugs are.
Ahah! I got my keys in the mail, which I had made using the key code stamped on both the handle shaft and cylinder shaft. They work perfectly. Once I inserted the new key, the tumbler ***embly easily slipped out of the cylinder housing. Now I can see the bottom of six springs holding in the tumblers/ “discs”. Now I’m trying to talk myself into tearing it down further….lol. I only ordered one set of keys ($9.50 to the door). Now that I know the key is the key to dis***embling, I’ll order another set for the other handle. Why I didn’t just get off the 9.50 in the first place will be a matter of discussion for generations to come.
thanks for the follow up! you ordered code cut keys, right? Instead of cutting them yourself from blanks?
yeah, it's one of those things you have to hold in your and and play with, to be able to understand it.
$9.50!, man the last time I had a key cut using the numbers was in the mid 80’s for my 56 at that price. Today, if you can find a lock smith in the Los Angeles Ca. area that knows what your asking for wants $60.00 for just the first key.
I had called a couple local locksmiths about getting keys before I figured out the key code thing. They were saying $80-150 "IF" they could figure out how to do it. Thanks to replies from HAMB'ers, we're looking good.
I failed to say that quote was some 5 years ago when I thought I had lost my key. Another detail about the key made in 80’s was done with a key cutter that the lock smith dials into it. The high dollar key quote was to take apart the lock cylinder to make the key per the pins.
As a follow up to my key code adventures.. I keep finding this same GM key code chart, but this is only the first page, which ends at 8284. Per the header up top, the chart should show all codes from 8000- 9499. Anybody ever seen the rest of the codes? Somewhere in this cluster of a shop are some old 55 key cylinders from which maybe I can rob some wafers.
That guy is totally wrong on his description of early GM door locks. His description is for later 50's where the lock was in the door, not for those where the locks were in the handle that he says are 36-49. Not sure I'd trust his info if he doesn't even know where the tumblers located in those years.
The Jalopy Journal
