BN7 boot latch

[RDKeysor]

Though I didn't recognize it, my car has the boot handle installed upside down. It also is sans key. I've removed the entire switch and find that the square rod that remains attached to the latch handle and the external trim has weld spots that seem to prevent its removal. I have no problem reinstalling the latch with the handle pointing up, as it should be, but I would like to remove the tumbler to see if i can get it rekeyed to match the ignition key. I'm sure someone has done this. Help!

 

[57_BN4]

There is a three digit number on the square rod, that is the key number

 

[RDKeysor]

Appreciate this information very much. With key number in hand, where do I go to find a key that fits? Do understand you are in lovely Auckland, a rather glorious city.

 

[57_BN4]

I got a nicely patina'd original key from this guy https://planefacts.co.uk/keys/ to match the number on the Heritage certificate and lo and behold it fitted the door and trunk. I'm guessing the PO hadn't locked anything for the last 40 years or so as the replacement ignition was dated 72.

Google "Wilmot Breeden Key" and you'll find a few others selling them. Your prefix should be FP or could be FS depending on the year.

Yep, in Auckland for the time being. We are 12 years into a ten year plan of 'Auckland' and are moving down to near Nelson in February for a change of tack. Moving a half finished Healey project is going to be interesting. I was over your way for your summer, based in Stuart FL. It was quite warm.

Cheers,
Andy.

 

[RDKeysor]

Just out of perversity, I suppose, the square steel shank on my lock shows a single number, 6, or is it 9? I'll check your key sources, and thanks.

 

[RDKeysor]

After some scrubbing, it appears the square shank on this latch is numbered 679. I'm still wondering how this piece dismantles so that the lock tumbler can be removed for rekeying.

 

[57_BN4]

The four crimps that hold the metal cup thing on need filing off then the cup comes off and you'll find a small pin stuck through the pot metal handle which holds the barrel in. Once the crimps are removed it is pretty difficult to re-crimp them again.

FP679 is a pretty common key
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Precut-Classic-Car-Key-Keys-FP-Series-/190747381637

 

[British_Recovery]

You can avoid filing by just forcing the sheet metal cup off. Then put it on in a different position and tap it back on. Use a punch to stake it back where you want it - use a vice to hold it compressing the small spring.

 

[RDKeysor]

I took the Jedi Warrior's route and have sought the key from the British source. I'm not to anxious to attempt to force the thing apart, square rod has bits of weld on it. Thanks to all. I'll let you know how the key purchase goes. Does anyone know a source that sells ignition keys using the numerals stamped on them?

 

[57_BN4]

Sorry, I might have led you astray there with the original key number as the welds could indicate that the lock has been apart and re-keyed previously. If that is the case then you don't have much option but to file down the welds and extract the lock. A locksmith will be able to re-code it if need be.

The original crimps looked like this:

What sort of ignition key do you have? I believe Healeys had only one key for ign and trunk but I'm not sure about the later cars. What year is your car?

Andy.

 

[RDKeysor]

I just pulled back on purchasing the FP679 key from the UK source on the basis of the Jedi's concern that my lock has been rekeyed. The car is a 1960 BN7, and the single key that came with it is a Lucas number 32362. It does not fit the book lock. In his accompanying photo I recognize the boot latch and number, but don't recognize the second piece that has an identical number stamped on it. These photos are very diagnostic, however and I appreciate them. I'm now at a loss as how to proceed, but if I find a really good lock shop, I may dismantle the latch and take it in to see if it can be rekeyed, maybe to the ignition key. I need duplicates of that, as well. I had a shop in Jacksonville, FL, that made new keys for my Jag Mark 2, but now seven years later I can'r remember exactly where it was. Jacksonville is, surprisingly, the largest city by area in the U.S.

 

[RDKeysor]

I canceled my UK order for an FP679 key on the basis of Jedi's last reply. If I find a lock shop that thinks it can rekey it, I'll grind off the weld and expect to be able to remove the tumbler. The only key I received for the car, ignition only, is a Lucas with number 92362. The car is a 1960 3000 Series 1. I recognize the boot latch with the number above, but have no idea what the second piece with the identical number is.

 

[57_BN4]

The other piece in the pic is the door lock which was only fitted to 1956-57 Healeys.

 

[bighealeysource]

Hey RD,
You can get keys from a local/US source at "British Car Keys", owned by Pete Groh. His website is : www.britishcarkeys.com. Good guy and should have what you need. Also has cores.
Regards,
Mike

 

[Duane_Rhynard]

RD,

I second Mike's recommendation. Give Pete a call, he loaned me a key to extract a core, I just paid USPS postage. I'm sure he would loan you a key to see if your lock was rekeyed, and if not, you could just purchase a key from him.

Duane
58 BN6

 

[John_Progess]

Pete Groh can supply keys cut to your code. pete_groh@yahoo.com cell 443-912-4740

 

[RDKeysor]

I have been in touch with Pete, who is very responsive and helpful. I'll report back on the countless options I have at hand.