Technical 1940 Plymouth lock question

I have a trunk lock for a '40 Plymouth that doesn't have a key. Took it to a locksmith and he said he can't pick it and can't remove the lock cylinder without a key to release the lock pin. Anyone ever solve this problem?

 

Post some close-up pics of the lock cylinder from a few different angles. That might help to determine if there was some way to non-destructively disassemble the lock.

 

If the locksmith has the correct blank, he should be able to make a key. The only other least destructive thing would be to grind off the locking pin and replace it later once you have the correct pins and key.

 

You need a competent locksmith or you could buy a new lock cylinder/key set. Drill out the old and replace.

 

Get a different Locksmith!

 

Several good locksmiths on the Ford Barn

 

I have collected keys for everything I found in my travels over the past 45 years. I have a large collection of auto keys, and have never found a servicable auto lock which I couldn't get a "wiggle and twist" key into to open. (Not counting any cars made after around 1990). The early locks were a snap to pick, as long as the mechanism was working. Try some early Chrysler, Dodge, etc keys and see if you can persuade it to click.

 

would the door lock key be the same?...if you have it.

 

I'll try another guy. This guy looks good though; little old guy with all of 10,000 keys on the wall, shop with old 30s vintage lock tools. I bought two new/old original key blanks but no luck picking it. The lock pin is embedded down in the pot metal of the body, no way to access it non-destructively. Absolutely need the key to remove the cylinder. Really dumb design.

 

Here's the problem. To make a key you need the tumbler out. To get the tumbler out, you need a key. It is held in by that tiny pin down in the slot and there is no way to get to it without doing damage. Without a key of course.

 

Can you not push the pin in from there and then remove the barrel?

 

Nope. It dead-ends solid. Have pounded on it a bunch.

 

The locking pin is probably made of brass. Can you drill it out with a small bit on a Dremel and break it off?

 

Looks like steel. And the problem is it is buried 1/2" dep in that well. Can't get at it except lowering a probe into the slot. If you could get straight shot, would be easy to remove it a few ways.