'73 Oval Key & Locks..Help!

[Peter G.]

I just purchased a '73 Corvette and the previous owner only had one ignition (square) key. On the '73 I understand that the square key is the ignition and door key. While the oval key is the spare tire lock, rear glove compartment lock and the security alarm lock. The glove box is unlocked, have not tried the set the alarm system and the spare tire lock IS locked! Of course I want all these three locks to be the same keyed as from the factory.

Where do I start? How do I get the spare tire lock off? How do I matched all these locks up?

Thanks in advance.

[Dick W.]

Re: '73 Oval Key & Locks..Help!

Since the glove box is unlocked, you should be able to remove it and get the key code from it. If not take that lock to your friendly locksmith and have him make a key for you

[Peter G.]

Re: '73 Oval Key & Locks..Help!

Well took the glovebox lid and lock into my local Master Locksmith. Took him awhile, but he finally able to make a key for me. The key was not the same keyway design as the repo GM "Mark of Excellence" keys that are available?

Anyway tried the new glovebox key on the spare tire lock and the security alarm lock and...nope, it doesn't work in either lock. Apparently this car has more than two locks on it. And not all were replaced at the same time.

Is there a repo supplier that I can get two locks and or lock cylinders to replace the glovebox lock and spare tire lock. I understand that I could possibly get the glovebox and spare tire lock the same to match, but the alarm is like a door lock?

Believe it or not.....
This all started when I decided I wanted to get the spare tire and wheel to NCRS standards and found out that I couldn't unlock the lock on the spare tire carrier.

Thanks guys for any suggestions.

[Dick W.]

Re: '73 Oval Key & Locks..Help!

I would try Pat Kraus at Pat's Locks. I believe that he advertises in the NCRS Driveline. Good service at a reasonable price. My .02 worth

[William C.]

Re: '73 Oval Key & Locks..Help!

I fully recommend Pat, try him at 410 879 9647, or via eamil at "HotRodOlds@aol.com" He has done locks for me for years.

[Jim T.]

Re: '73 Oval Key & Locks..Help!

Peter it is very easy to remove the spare tire lock and the alarm lock. Look at the frame attachment of the spare tire lock and remove the two bolts and you can remove the complete assembly and take the lock to your locksmith to get a key made. While you in the same area remove the clip that retains the lock assembly for the alarm, pull it out and unscrew the two wires and you can take it to the locksmith. If you connect the two wires together you can see if your alarm system will still work. One of them should have 12 volts, so protect it while your lock is getting keyed.