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Lost Key.....HELP!!

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nathandarby67

nathandarby67

Senior Member
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Well, I managed to loose the only ignition key I have to my 73 Midget. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused.gif Does anyone know of some place that can cut a new key based on the VIN? Or is that not possible on our LBC's? If that is not an option, does anyone happen to have an extra ignition lock assembly with a key they would be willing to sell? Any other ideas for a lost key?
 
You might try this site. https://britishcarkeys.com/
Another option is to get a new tumbler (which would come with ignition keys).
When I bought my Bugeye the ignition key was missing (I'm lucky in that the key only works the ignition) I was able to get a new tumbler and set of keys from a local auto parts store that specializes in british cars - it was faster than getting a key cut from the key code on the tumbler.

Hope this helps
cd
 
I agree that the best option may be to get a new tumbler/key set.

When and if you go this route, you'll be trying to figure out how to release the old core. Look around the circumference of the ignition switch when you remove it from the dash. You'll find a radial hole pointing toward the center of the switch assembly. Use a small allen wrench or screwdriver to reach in that hole to find the little brass release plunger. Push that in while using a hooked paperclip or similar to pull the old core out of the switch.
 
Itoo have only one key for my 79 Midget-everytime I've gone to have one made-Hardware stores, walmart ,lock smith-they don't work. If I order a key blank from an available source can one of these places cut it? Or will this too, be a problem.?????????Randi /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/jester.gif
 
If you supply the blank a proper locksmith will be able to cut it. The hardware stores told me they could do it... but they were going to charge me the same, even though I supplied the blank. I didn't like paying for the blank twice so I took my business to a local smith. When I got there, I found that this guy was a lifetime locksmith with a huge collection of uncataloged blanks, including ones that would fit my locks. Message... seek out an old locksmith in your local area.

My worst key story happend in the late 1970s. I had a BMW-2002 with ONE key. A buddy of mine wanted to drive the car to dinner so I handed him the keys. He went to unlock the car and the key broke off in the door. We called a traveling locksmith and $40 later (nearly a half week's after-tax wages for me at that time) he had "filed" a new key profile on a blank while holding the broken pieces together with vice-grips. Needless to say, I've always had extra keys for all my cars since that night.
 
Hey nathanddarby67,
When I bought my Little 79 Midget, it came without a key. The PO had lost it. It was actually cheaper and a lot less trouble to get a Lock Smith to come to the house and make make one It cost me around $120, but it was worth it not to have to change all th locksets. Rick
 
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