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Coach Key (T-Key / Chruch Key / Fool's Key) Revival

JHaydon

Jedi Warrior
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Sorting through the accessories provided with the TR3A now residing in my garage, I found two "Coach Keys" AKA "T-Keys". Based on earlier threads, one may be the prized original and the other is the dreaded later "dogbone handle" type. I'm happy to keep using the dogbone version and stash the straight one (even though the concours field is beyond my reach).

However... The tip of the business end is a bit worn, particularly on the dogbone version. TRF says about their replacement key:
"this will be a full-size key... end will have to be filed or ground to fit square holes in Dzus fasteners"

Would it be ridiculous to try to revive this non-sacred tool by filing it (carefully, to preserve the taper and square profile)? Has anyone bothered to try it?

I'm not just trying to save $13. I shed tears whenever a tool goes in the trash. If it costs me $130 in labor to make it like new, I'd consider it time well spent.
 
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