TR2/3/3A TR3 keys and locks

[Bruce100]

I have the original keys for my TR3. One works in the ignition, one door lock, and the other key (different number) works in the glove box. Here is my challenge - cannot fit the key all the way into the lock in one door handle (the number on the door handle matches the key), which is locked. I cannot turn either key in the boot lock, which is unlocked.

Suggestions? I'd like to keep the original keys, so

1. Can i get a new lock for boot and handle that will work with my original key?
2. Did the ignition/door key also fit the boot lock?
3. Is there a number on the boot lock to match the key? (haven't taken it apart yet)

thanks all

 

[TR3TR6]

You could have a locksmith key them all the same. I had that done on my TR6.

 

[6TTR3A]

The original plan was: 2 keys; 1= Ignition and boot lock, 2= doors and cubby box.
The ignition key barrel had the series ( FP FS) and the 3 digit key code stamped on the SS face. The cubby box lock had the code only (since it would be the same series as all the others) stamped on the "tongue" (easily visible).. If you were to remove the barrel from the cubby box lock, then both the series and code would be visible.
The series and code for the door and boot locks are not visible unless you detach the barrel from the handle. Because the ignition key barrel itself is of a different design than the rest of them they are not interchangeable, so I'm confused as to how you can see a code number on a door (or) boot lock face.
On the other hand, ANYTHING was possible on the 1950s -60s Standard Triumph assembly line.
As to the key not going all the way in: There is a broken tumbler spring
and/or a frozen tumbler, preventing it from moving. Quite common in a 50+ old lock that isn't used often.
I think TR3TR6 has the answer; Take ALL your locks out of the car, take them to a locksmith with your original keys and have them match them up and get new spare set made as well.
If you really want to tackle the problem yourself, find a friend who knows about barrel type tumbler locks to help you. He/she will know where to get what few parts you will need.
Frank

 

[Bruce100]

Thanks Frank

The door handles are removed, that is how I saw the number. The ignition and door handles have the same number...

 

[mgedit]

No door handles on my 56, but I took the locks apart myself on the TR3 and the TR6 to clean them and move the bits around when necessary to match keys and locks. Those little brass springs real "jump" so care is required if you feel up to tackling them yourself. Local locksmith is also good idea if available. I thought I found a website describing process but can't find it now. Here is are two sites with some information https://britishcarkeys.com/keyinformation.html and https://www.key-men.com/

cheers, Mike

 

[vivdownunder]

Often a quick squirt of PTFE spray into the keyhole will free up the tumblers and the key then works like a charm.

Saved me burning nearly $700 on the 4WD when a dealer said the only option was to replace the whole ignition lock.

Viv.

 

[martx-5]

I've always used powdered graphite on stubborn lock cylinders. It's generally less messy then any liquid sprays.

 

[TR3driver]

Those little brass springs real "jump" so care is required if you feel up to tackling them yourself. Local locksmith is also good idea if available. I thought I found a website describing process but can't find it now. Here is are two sites with some information https://britishcarkeys.com/keyinformation.html and https://www.key-men.com/

cheers, Mike

BTW, those two web sites are also excellent resources for any lock work you want done. Both of them do a lot of LBC work, have original key blanks, can cut keys by code, re-key British locks and so on.

Or dive in and do it yourself. They are really very simple (and pretty crude as locks go), easy to pick if necessary. If you're not too worried about security, you can just file down the existing tumblers to accept your key (and any other key between yours and the original). Check YouTube for how to pick locks.

 

[Darrell_Walker]

If you're not too worried about security, you can just file down the existing tumblers to accept your key (and any other key between yours and the original). Check YouTube for how to pick locks.

I did this on my TR4A to match the trunk lock. Since I'm pretty sure that anyone stronger than a toddler could twist the lock open anyway, I don't think I lost too much security.

 

[BillyB62]

Or dive in and do it yourself. They are really very simple (and pretty crude as locks go), easy to pick if necessary. I

Randall,

You have many talents