TR2/3/3A TR3A Ignition Switch - new lock/key

[angelfj1]

I've misplaced the original ignition switch key.
I have a new lock cylinder/key. How do I remove the original cylinder and install new one?

 

[HerronScott]

Frank,

Any reason not to get a replacement key instead?

Scott

 

[TR3driver]

You'll need to pick the lock (or take it to a locksmith and let him do it). Fortunately they are trivial to pick. Search Google or YouTube for lots of information on lock picking; but the basic idea is to put some turning force on the cylinder with one tool (a jeweler's screwdriver will do), while you use another tool (bent paperclip) to press each tumbler in turn. The force on the cylinder holds the tumbler in the released position. When they are all released, the cylinder turns.

If you have a blank key, sometimes you can pick the lock by simply inserting the uncut key and holding moderate pressure against the cylinder while withdrawing the key. The trick is to get just the right amount of pressure, so that each tumbler falls back only to it's released position. (And this method doesn't always work.)

With the cylinder in the "On' position, you stick a pin punch or similar through the hole in the side of the housing, to depress the pin that holds the cylinder into the housing. Use a screwdriver or something to pull on the cylinder while depressing the pin.

BTW, once the cylinder is out of the housing, it's pretty easy to cut a key to match.

The other alternative of course is to just replace the whole thing ... chances are good that the original switch and housing are well worn anyway.

 

[Andrew Mace]

Frank,

Any reason not to get a replacement key instead?

Scott

Assuming that there is still a key number on the face, it's very simple to get a replacement key from folks like Pete Groh or "Key-Men"(?), or from some of the major Triumph and other LBC parts vendors...or dial that key number into eBay, where you'll often find original Wilmot-Breeden keys or the occasional Romac replacement key, both having the numbers on the keys.

 

[angelfj1]

Frank,

Any reason not to get a replacement key instead?

Scott

Well, yes I did think of that. What I actually want, is to have the ignition key match the new door and boot locks.

 

[HerronScott]

Ah well that makes sense if you are changing those out as well.

Scott